Knowledge, Wisdom and Perspective

It’s always difficult for me (and likely for you) to take time away from existing projects to attend workshops, conferences, etc. But I had a gut reaction to the information I received about this year’s AIM (Atlantic Internet Marketing) Conference (http://www.aimconference.com)- that it was important/valuable for me to attend. I’m extremely grateful I followed my intuition and made my way to the Halifax World Trade and Convention Centre (http://www.wtcchalifax.com)  on June 7 and 8.

Information and ideas were in constant flow and have provided me a wealth of inspiration. The advice I received from both speakers and audience members is worth thousands of dollars to The Phone Lady. And, if I’m diligent in following through on this advice, I know it’s going to increase my revenue.

The AIM Conference provides an opportunity to learn from the successes of others navigating the frontier of internet marketing – and from their less-successful efforts as well. In every session I attended, speakers generously shared their experiences – saving me time and money.

If you didn’t attend AIM this year, and you’re involved in your company’s internet marketing, I encourage you to make the conference a priority for 2013.

My two favorite “sound bites” of wisdom from the conference also apply to phonework, powerfully illustrating how all our marketing efforts are vitally connected:

1. “It’s not your customer’s job to remember you.” Jim Fitt, President, Velsoft,  http://www.velsoft.com on Demystifying Your Sales Model for Successful Online Advertising 

2. “Build a relationship – all the time. Don’t assume is already exists.” George Inglis, Designer and Principal, Propel Design  http://www.propeldesign.ca/ on Email Marketing: 10 Tips to Success in 2012 

In addition to the conversations I enjoyed at AIM this past week, I also spent time talking with members of the Centre for Women in Business, at a small luncheon and a larger evening event. My blog (this blog) was mentioned to me often. Some people told me how much they enjoy reading it every week, others thanked me for sending it directly to their inbox. Some indicated that once a week was too much and others suggested they’d prefer seeking it out rather than my sending it to them.

Hmmm.

This blog began as an experiment in August 2009. I brought to it a discipline from my year’s as a journalist – the weekly column that must get done. Creating content has made me more observant of myself and others. I’ve learned a great deal. And every week, whether as a comment or a direct message, I’ve heard from one or more readers.

What I haven’t done  is take stock. While I know you “can’t please all the people” I believe I’m being guided to step back, do a bit of research, seek out more feedback.

In fact, I’ll be approaching you. Sometime before the end of June I’ll send you a very brief (3-to-4 question) survey which I hope you’ll take a moment to complete. Then I’ll be back and, just like at the AIM Conference, I’ll share with you  lessons from both my successes and my learning curves! 

One Last Thought:

Every man is enthusiastic at times. One man has enthusiasm for thirty minutes – another for thirty days, but it is the man who has it for thirty years who makes a success of his life. Edward B. Butler, Welsh actor 

Enjoy your phonework everyone!