Step into the Spotlight Inspiration Lounge

Lead more with your heart and less with your head; it’s the seat of your wisdom and core of your personal brand!

2012-02-10T13:07:00.000-08:00

One of thebest decisions I recently made going into the New Year last month was makingthe commitment to bring art, rejuvenation, yoga, massages, and flow back intomy life consistently while setting the intention for all these to help expandmy life and my clients.

My firstaction step? I took myself on an overnight solo artist retreat prior to NewYear's Eve.

Well, the days following proved that listening to my intuition was spot on. Mycreativity soared as did my senses. I felt more alive, saw things more clearly,connected more with my heart, and had more physical energy than months prior. Now, a few months into the new year andI am feeling more at “home” than I did over the last few years. I feel moreconfident and true to myself.

I had not painted art in almost 5 years (which was alwaysa jolt for my creativity). During the retreat I was inspired to reconnect withthis part of my authenticity I had long neglected.

So I stepped into Clara Berta’s art studio (the host of the retreat) andproduced what I later named "Golden Sunset." I had no idea what I wasgoing to paint, but with her guidance, this is what emerged. :)

I'm encouraging you for 2012 and beyondto listen to your heart more and your head less. They work together but pleaseallow your heart to take front seat. Why?

It's theseat of your wisdom.

With that said, here are a few tips how to live your life moreauthentically, which will SHINE through your personal brand in all yourmarketing:

1.Invent your own life.Live according to your own ideals of happiness. Allow your imagination to setfulfilling goals for the New Year and have the courage to go after them tillcomplete.

2. Live passionately. Radiate your vital energy; it'scontagious and inspiring to others while raising the vibration around you asyou pay it forward.

3. Learnand evolve. Commit to continually learning something new about life,your business, and relationships. Evolve.

When you take care ofyour inner life, your outer life (and brand) succeeds. Here’s to a fabulous year where lives are enhanced and dreams arerealized because of we heeded the call of our hearts.

# # #

How can you INNOVATE your business to excel in today's NEWeconomic climate? Find out in “ Innovate Your Marketing with aCompelling Personal Brand;
Small business secrets to thriving in our socialreward economy”ebook
--> http://bit.ly/PBInnovate

Who has time for ALL that?!

2012-02-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

Definitely one ofthe biggest concerns I hear or read often when it comes to Social Media forentrepreneurs is “who has time for all that?”

Trust me, I understand! Hang on. There is a methodto the madness!

Honestly, you are not meant to do “all that” andyou just need to implement a strategy and a system that streamlines your time;not overload it.

I know easier said than done? Let me make moresense of this for you. One of the main elements in my coaching personalbranding for social media success is making sure my content has a streamlinedapproach for my clients (besides recommending hiring a virtual assistant). I never want to overwhelm them; but I am also realisticin the time it takes to innovate their business marketing (and mindset) tomatch today’s savvy consumer (and their needs) for our “social reward” economy.

To illustrate my point, I ran across a Facebook postingfrom my online mastermind group page that speaks directly to this “time” issue.I know you will relate and I know this will take the edge off the frustration.

Q:“How do you manage it all? (Facebook) I know there are tools to automate yourposts, but how do possibly find the time to reply to (or even just read!) theresponses? If I’m posting frequently, so is everyone else I follow. So again, atime thing; how do you possibly really follow all the people you follow and ifI am not really reading what they post, how can I expect them to be readingwhat I post?”

A:Phew! That’s sounds exhausting, right? Well, it is when you don’t have astrategy or system.

First - as long as we are “mindful” and strategic withwho we accept in our friend community – meaning who matches our target marketprofile and those of like minds (you are building the right audience for yourmarketing and networking), we will have intelligent, caring, interesting poststo interact with. However, let’s take it a step further to address the time andoverwhelm issue, which is the motivation for this question. You may have seenit but have no idea what they are and how they work to your advantage; custom and smart lists.

Creating lists is the core of your time saving andsavvy strategy on Facebook. Here are tips in how to create them and how to usethem. Hang in there – this is kind of techy so I will try to make it easy tofollow.

1. First compose a list of categories for yourlists. Name them on a word doc. Maybe your lists could be clients, networkingevent on Feb 10, vendors, mastermind group (name), potential clients, etc. Youcreate the name.

2. Now you are ready to create time saving lists!You can add certain friends to lists by hovering over the Friends buttonat the top of their profile (Timeline) and selecting from the list names thatappear in the drop down list. If you don't see the name of the list you'relooking for, click the option to show all of your lists or choose in juststarting choose” +new list” to create one. A check mark will appear next to the list you addthe friend to.

3. You can also choose the list (or create a newone) you want a friend to be in as you accept a friend (This is assuming youknow where friend requests are on your profile account) After you click “confirm” when accepting a friend,hover over “friend” button that replaced the “confirm” button and the samelists (or +new list) will appear for you to add them to a list.

4. The same process is available when you send afriend request from a profile. FB will give you the option to add them to alist as you send the request so it’s ready to be added once they accept.

5. Now you should have a host of lists you make asyou grow your community. Keep adding friends to lists. You also have the optionof the smart lists that are already made by FB. Those are close friends,acquaintances, family. When you add an important person to the close friendssmart list you will receive a notification each time they post so you can stayon top of their conversations. Be selective who those will be. This is one ofseveral ways to save time and follow those most important to you.

Here’s more how you save time following people and staying on top ofwhat they post so you can engage:

Once your custom and smart lists are set up you canuse them to read only their posts in the newsfeed (home) by clicking on a liston the left side of your home page (newsfeed). All your lists should be listed.This allows you to “filter” the newsfeed to see only their posts. I recommendyou do this 2x a day for a few minutes to stay in touch with your mostimportant people. It’s a discipline that helps build your business; it’s notidle time.

This is the time saving strategy. Since FB is anetworking/marketing tool and relationship building tool – time invested isrevenue producing time – not wasted time. The only time is a waste when youhave no strategy or system to who and what you are doing.

Ifyou can’t find your lists on the left side of the home page – try this: go to http://www.facebook.com/bookmarks/listsand then click on each one you want add to your favorites section on leftcolumn. This will initiate the lists section too to be added to home page.

Make sense? I hope so! By creating a new disciplinefor your marketing – you will save time and begin seeing your community growwith quality people who you can serve and they can serve you, too.

What do you post as a persona brand? That’s anotherarticle! Happy posting and building relationships!

For more advanced personal branding and Social Media strategies, go for my free subscription to my STEP INTO THESPOTLIGHT ezine at www.eCreativebiz.comfeaturing innovative branding and social media marketing strategies, creativeinspiration, and success mindset tips for the savvy entrepreneur. Plus receiveMarla's high content article,"7 Benefits to Having a Clear, Compelling Personal Brand Positioning You as Client Attractive."

Do I mix my personal friends with business contacts on Facebook?

2012-01-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

The blendingof your business brand as your personal brand is the secret to excelling inyour marketing today. This allows you to be a savvy, innovative brand connectingwith people worldwide and positioning you to have a global business. Soundsexciting, right?

It isexciting, but there's one challenge.

Many businessowners are still of the mindset that personal and business are separate andtruly don't have a clearly defined personal brand. No worries. No fault of yourown. We all come from the same mindset and training. It’s those who step up andINNOVATE their brand to speak to the sophisticated consumer will progress.

In today's"Social Reward" economy, every business owner needs to think ofhimself or herself as a brand; it's no longer an option, it's a necessity ifyou are to succeed in your marketing using Social Media.

Why?

The abundanceof savvy consumers today requires an authentic relationship online. They wantto get to KNOW, LIKE, AND TRUST you before they consider hiring you, buyingfrom you, or recommending you.

By deliveringa well defined personal brand in all your marketing channels (website, blog,ezine, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube) you are poised to win. Then thequality of your postings and content become more compelling and"marketable."

Furthermore, whenyou build the right audience for your message with a clearly defined personalbrand, you are now poised to thrive in our Social Reward economy.

Building the right audience for your social media requires aspecific strategy of being very selective and clear who you will allow intoyour communities, especially on Facebook.

I have had several business owners comment they prefer not havingtheir personal friends mixed with their business clients and customers. Irecommend you keep them all in your friend community and just be very savvy inyour postings (I coach specifically how to do that) plus know your purpose tousing Facebook is business savvy more than personal. Remember, you aredelivering the authentic you as a brand for people to get to know, like, andtrust first which leads to business contacts and potential clients to serve.

This is personal branding style marketing in our Social Rewardeconomy. It’s OK to be you in front of all people. That’s virtual networkingand how SEO is now measured. The game of marketing has changed. Time forinnovating.

However if you still prefer keeping them separate, here are twosolutions:

1. Create another FB main account (Timeline) under a version ofyour name, perhaps add the middle initial so it’s easy for your friends to findyou and use that solely for your personal friends.

2. Use the custom list option for each of those “personal” typepostings by creating a “private friends” custom list and be sure to choose thatlist (bottom right hand corner of the update box) whenever posting.

To give you a sense of clarity why this style of branding today isso important, I’ve spelled out 3 of my 7 benefits to having a clear, compellingpersonal brand which makes you “client attractive.”

1. You areseen as an innovative business that is on top of their game thriving in ourSocial reward economy. (Impression of increase)

2. You willknow how to implement the key strategy to capture public interest, tell acompelling story and convert that market into a loyal audience.

3. You willknow how to clearly communicate in an authentic voice in ALL your marketingchannels (website, social media, blog, ezine, and emails) to your existingcommunity and potential new clients or customers so they FEEL connected to youbefore they choose to buy or hire you.

Learn the other 4 benefits and inspiration during our upcoming Spring evening “Beauty, Bling and Branding You Lifestyle event" – Networking, shopping, and guest speaking by Marla Dennis & Laura Weintraub for professional women. Date and location TBA. Sign up for UPDATES by clicking here..

Gratitude,

Marla :)

Glam, Bling, & Social Media Style for 2012!

2011-12-29T17:36:00.000-08:00

I’m coming to youfrom my solo artist retreat nestled in a beautiful home in Los Angeles. I gave myself the gift ofsolitude to help create and begin planning my 2012 programs, goals, productsand vision. I think I just created a ritual I will carry on for years to come! I’mloving this.

I found this lovelyretreat via airbnb.com. What a great find! Homeowners offer up theirhomes, rooms, apartments around the globe for travelers wanting a morepersonalized place to stay. A few days prior to finding this, I sent a requestout the Universe (Spirit) and clearly defined my vision for my retreat day.This was more magical than I imagined and certainly much more artistic. My bedand breakfast host, Clara Berta, who owns “Villa Berta,” is a beautifullytalented renowned abstract artist who opens up her home to film productions,photo sessions, travelers, and locals wanting a piece of heaven.

One of the several creative programs I amplanning is

a kick-off to 2012 with “Turn Up the Volume on Your Personal Brand with Glam, Bling, andSocial Media Style for the New Year!!” AnEvening of Make-up Artistry, Jewelry, and Social Media Savviness for theWoman Entrepreneur.

Laura Weintraub, South Bay’srenowned beauty expert and style director of Classy and Chic Make-up Boutique,is my co-producer for this inspiring evening event scheduled for January 26th. ThisNew Year South Bay (Los Angeles) kick-off event is designed as an elegant evening of networking,make-up artistry education, and strategic social media training for theentrepreneurial and professional woman.

The purpose of our “Turn Up the Volume on Your Personal Brand with Glam, Bling, andSocial Media Style for the New Year!!” event is to inspire womento create a clear, compelling and powerful personal brand for business successto thrive in our Social Reward economy.

One of the more brilliant tools for yourbrand delivery today is Facebook’s new Timeline. The basis of my personal brandcoaching is the power of digital storytelling. Our Timelines makes it easy foryou to do just that! I was thrilled when I saw the creativity of the newlayout! I will be teaching more about that in the Jan 26^th event.

Laura will demonstrate her signature AirbrushMake-up design to enhance the inner and outer beauty of today’s dynamic,success-driven woman. I'll be delivering my signature creative personal branding/social media presentation inspiring women to be savvy, smart and strategicwith their marketing for 2012.

So, as I dive back into my planning here atVilla Berta, please SAVE THE DATE and mark your calendars for Thursday, Jan 26^thfrom 6-9 pm at a "to-be-determined" location in the South Bay.Add magic, color and vitality to your 2012 goals by sharing the evening withLaura and I! Registration details coming next week!

In our “shareable” world, our clear, compellingpersonal brand is our best asset to thrive in our new economy; and what betterway to refine that brand than to learn from the experts who can help illuminatethat brilliance and beauty from the inside out!

Happy Fabulous New Year,

Marla

7 Benefits to Having a Clear, Compelling Personal Brand Positioning You as Client Attractive

2011-12-04T21:57:00.001-08:00

The blending of your business brand as yourpersonal brand is the secret to excelling in your marketing today.

This allowsyou to be a savvy, innovative brand connecting with people worldwide positioning you to have a global business.

Sounds exciting, right?

It is exciting, but there's one challenge. Manybusiness owners are still of the mindset that personal and business areseparate and truly don't have a clearly defined personal brand. No worries. Nofault of your own. We all come from the same mindset and training of past strategies. It’s thosewho step up and INNOVATE their brand to speak to the sophisticated consumerwill progress.

In today's "Social Reward" economy, everybusiness owner needs to think of himself or herself as a brand; it's no longeran option, it's a necessity if you are

to succeed in your marketing usingSocial Media.

Why?

The abundance of savvy consumers today requires anauthentic relationship online. They want to get to KNOW, LIKE, AND TRUST youbefore they consider hiring you, buying from you, or recommending you.

By delivering a well defined personal brand in allyour marketing channels (website, blog, ezine, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn andYouTube) you are poised to win. Then the quality of your postings and contentbecome more compelling and "marketable."

Furthermore, when you build the right audience foryour message with a clearly defined personal brand, you are now poised tothrive in our Social Reward economy.

To give you a sense of clarity why this style ofbranding today is so important, I’ve spelled out 7 benefits of having a clear,compelling personal brand that makes you “client attractive.”

1. You are seen as an innovative business that is ontop of their game thriving in our Social reward economy. (Impression ofincrease)

2. You will know how to implement the key strategyto capture public interest, tell a compelling story and convert that marketinto a loyal audience.

3. You’ll have the skills to be an innovativedigital storyteller creating raving fans for your business.

4. You will know how to clearly communicate in anauthentic voice in ALL your marketing channels (website, social media, blog,ezine, and emails) to your existing community and potential new clients orcustomers so they FEEL connected to you before they choose to buy or hire you.

5. Your expertise & personality translates tosavvy online content resonating with your target market profile.

6. Your Google rankings will be higher due torecent “content” requirements. Search engines are now seeking “emotionallybased” content for priority ranking. This translates to SEO - (Search EngineOptimization)

7. Your personality is power.No one can duplicate who you are. As a result, you take yourself out of thecompetition. It doesn't matter if your competition is down the street; when youreach out to your market in a personal way OUTSIDE of the office and nurturethat relationship online via your social media, blog and custompersonality-driven ezine, you hedge the competition and build more loyal followers.In today's overly saturated market,you MUST be consistent with your online marketing to build the know, like &trust factor. (Even if you think it's not necessary).

What is the value of these 7 benefits for yourbusiness? PRICELESS.

The more savvy your brand and content – thestronger your SEO allowing people to find you online easier and moreefficiently. Remember this: the more online content and “online real estate” you have– the easier it is for people to find you; hence your business growth andbottom line.

The 7 benefits set you up to win by BUILDINGMOMENTUM and converting to revenues when used with an effective marketingsystem.

As the "new" breed of entrepreneurstoday, we are being rewarded by being social and personable in our marketingstyle and content. We are bringing our conversations online to make friends andfans in a casual but respectful, savvy manner. Hence, Social Reward economy.

Theend result: Up to 3-6 monthsof consistently implementing the strategies and tools learned, you willexperience a more quality email list, a growing online and offline community ofloyal clients converting to more revenues.

How can you INNOVATE your business for today's fragile economic climate? Find the solution in my "Quick-Start Secrets to a COMPELLING Personal Brand" ebook.

http://bit.ly/quickstart-secrets (There is a free excerpt download!)

Gratitude,

Marla
Your Personal Branding and Social Media Savvy Muse!

Personal Branding Expert, New Thought Speaker, Creative Strategist
Step into the Spotlight!
Marketing, Mindset & Money Mastery coaching programs
www.eCreativebiz.com

Monetize your personal brand! Get your FREE branding, online marketing and social media savvy tips with Step into the Spotlight monthly ezine for Creative & Lifestyle entrepreneurs and Dentists at www.eCreativebiz.com

Gratitude Giveaway!

2011-11-19T22:11:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving week!

How did you like the 5 Smart Tips and Tools for the NEW Facebook I posted lastweek?

Did you implement any of the applications, read the non-profit Facebook tips,download the fan page storefront app or download my NEW eBook excerpt from, Quick-Start Secrets to a Compelling Personal Brand, Now!" - How to INNOVATE your marketing to THRIVE in our SOCIAL REWARD economy?

In the spirit of GRATITUDE and THANKSGIVING, I am kicking off a week longGIVEAWAY campaign starting Monday Nov 21st that requires a few simple steps for you to be a possiblewinner!

Since my mission is to elevate business owners with innovativetechnologies and strategies in order to THRIVE in our "Social Reward"economy, I want to give you a running start! There is one requirement Ihave for you. Are you willing to partner with me on contributing the energy ofGRATITUDE throughout Facebook? Let's have fun, ok? Come on - play with me!

Here's what's happening Thanksgiving week Nov 21-27 (Midnight PST):

1. I want to help THREE eager entrepreneurs begin to elevate theirbusiness for 2012, so I am GIVING AWAY 3 copies of my "QUICK-START SECRETSto a COMPELLING Personal Brand" eBook! Curious what the eBook is? Click here BUT come back to the details here.

2. All you must do is "Like" my fan page, Social Media Savvy, if youare not a fan yet, by clicking here. Once at the page in order toqualify to be one of 3 possibly chosen for a GIFTED COPY of my eBook, you MUSTpost something you are GRATEFUL for on the wall at my fan page. Make itcompelling!

3. If you are already a fan, awesome! All you need to do to qualify is you MUSTpost something you are GRATEFUL for on the wall at my fan page. Make itcompelling! Click here

4. My team and I will choose 3 COMPELLING gratitude posts to be the 3 winners!The winners will be announced and acknowledged on my fan page and personal pageon Monday, Nov 28th after the holiday weekend. You will need to give us youremail if you are a winner. The 34- page HIGH CONTENT eBook is an easy digitaldownload we will email you.

This GRATITUDE GIVEAWAY accomplishes several things:

a. We get to spread the energy of gratitude to all our Facebookcommunities because gratitude is a multiplier of good. The more you aregrateful the more you receive things to be grateful for!

b. I am able to generously enhance and gift the lives of three chosenentrepreneurs who see the value in learning how to be INNOVATIVE in today'sSOCIAL REWARD economy.

c. You just might receive a very unexpected surprise from "leftfield" because of contributing gratitude energy!

Ready to jump into the Gratitude Giveaway? Click here

Grateful,

Marla

5 Smart Tools and Tips for the NEW Facebook

2011-11-14T12:32:00.001-08:00

Recent research told me there are three simple primary reasons people go online:

1. To be entertained, inspired, or educated.
2. To find a solution to a challenge.
3. To look for instructions or advice.

Given that, I have gathered 5 smart tools and tips I found online to meet the NEW entrepreneur's needs. "New" meaning - a new breed of entrepreneurs who are open to change, innovation, and building community vs. remaining private and secluded. (Yes there are still many business owners who have not innovated their mindsets to align with our "Social Reward" economy strategies.)

This list is chock-full of progressive advice, solutions to challenges, and can be entertaining, inspiring and of course educational. :) Would enjoy your feedback here by posting a comment!

5 Smart Tools and Tips For the NEW Facebook:
1. Are you a non-profit and can't figure out how to make Facebook work for your fundraising efforts or how to find donors?
Click here - 10 ways non-profits can benefit from Social Media

2. Your personal brand is so crucial to your success on social media channels due to building the know, like, & trust factor. It's not just about your fan page. You are building relationships first. This one tool (custom and smart lists) will save you time and make your efforts much more effective in getting your posts to the correct audience! Click on the title here for an excerpt from my NEW "QUICK START SECRETS TO A COMPELLING PERSONAL BRAND: How to INNOVATE your marketing to THRIVE in our SOCIALL REWARD economy!" eBOOK (read through first few paragraphs of the directed page for the download link)

3. Terrific report from HUBSPOT, " How to Master Facebook Marketing in 10 Days" Click here

4. Want a storefront for your fan page? Sell your products to your fan base? Click here for payvment application.

5. Excellent article on "How to Humanize Your Company with Social Media." Click here

Keep me posted on what you implement and how it works for you. Wishing you prosperity and progress.

Gratitude,

Marla

May the Joy Rise Within You. Thanks Oprah!

2011-10-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

Where have I been? I had no idea of the depth of Oprah's impact on people's lives. My inner world has changed noticeably in the last two weeks since making my living room into a life class with Oprah from 11 pm - 1 am Mon-Fri.

Given that Oprah's daytime show for 25 years was on at 4 pm daily, I rarely had the luxury to watch the show. Either my work as a publicist had me watching her a few times for clients or I would grab snippets here and there on YouTube or late night repeats, but never a consistent diet of Oprah. I admit, I am an Oprah believer and student now.

This blog entry is far from my branding topic and more about what makes my heart sing in a bigger way.

How my life could have been different had I embraced her long before this, I don't know.

But, I do know I am seriously grateful for becoming an Oprah Life Class student 5 nights a week. Her Life Class is now part of my personal development/spiritual practice.

I had no idea to the depth of her influence in people's lives until this past few weeks. I was brought to tears last night more than once in watching just how much joy she gives to others. I was in awe as I watched Oprah last night demonstrate her true meaning of JOY RISING when she took an entire audience (several 100) to the magical country of Australia last year and how they paid it forward to many in their lives once back home due to her gracious gift.

These several hundred people had major life changing experiences as a result of their Australian experience with Oprah. During the Life Class show she recorded interviews of several people today who attended that trip and how the experience changed their lives. Remarkable. Talk about paying it forward! Many stepped into non-profit work, gave back to their communities, and forged new relationships that never would have occurred had they not been graced by Oprah's generosity. Now that's a movement like I have never seen before.

Her life lesson last night - "May the joy rise within you and pay it forward to others." Her vision is to see a joyful world where we give to one another. She lives her life on purpose and that is incredibly inspiring.

Another "Joy Rising" example she shared from a past show concerned two men in her an "after the show" segment. They were huge Mariah Carey fans and stood up asking to see her. Oprah granted that wish and brought them to her concert. That day while at the concert, they were asked to be in Mariah's video. So not only did they get their wish but it was even better than they could dream of! Oprah observing their "joy rising" is what she lives for.

Then the next part of their story is incredible.

These two men changed their lives dramatically as a result of being on her show back then. When they watched themselves once the original show aired, one realized he was heavier than he realized and lost 60 lbs months by disciplining himself to run marathons. The other man noticed a strange lump on his neck while watching himself on TV. He went to the doctor and found an advanced cancer in his neck! He's cancer free today. Had these men not asked for what they wanted and Oprah had not honored their wish, their lives would have had a very different look and feel today. Pay it forward.

The life changing stories just go on and on with this woman. I have since jumped into her online Life Class on her site and even entered her contest to be a chosen audience member (Hey, that's where it all happens!) for the airing of one of her Life Class shows. She moved her production company out to L.A. (yeah!) and films the show out here. I am putting it out to the Universe to be chosen!

All of this has led to some very inspirational ideas that will soon be revealed. Let's just say it follows the same theme of "Joy Rising." My inspired idea was born out of giving that which you want. I have always wanted a loving family that was very involved in my life, a true sense of belonging and worldwide travel. So, the theme brewing centers on families, a sense of belonging, travel, joy, and giving back to families who otherwise would not have the ability to vacation together or travel. More to come. Stay tuned!

For now, I ask you to inspire JOY for others in some way, some how. Then find the JOY in your own heart and soul and nourish it.

Blessings,

Marla

Entrepreneurs are a rare breed fueling our economy

2011-10-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

Entrepreneurs are a rare breed, doyou agree?

It takes acertain mindset to continue to believe and have faith in our business vision ona daily basis. We are like the warriors of the economy who create jobs forothers and create our own income when others are having a challenge findingjobs.

In times like these where theworldwide protest, "Occupy Wall Street," gives voice to highereducation graduates seeking jobs but can't make their dreams come true becauseof the state of our economy - our contribution as entrepreneurs can givehope to others who can do the same if they looked for new, innovative ways toserve humanity with their brilliance.

I consider myself an advocate for thesmall business entrepreneur by helping people bring their talents to the world(via online marketing and social media systems) to change lives. We have anobligation to serve humanity.

Don't keep it a secret by lacking in yourmarketing consistency.

My value to you is I help you designyour savvy authentic personal brand and an online marketing system for today'sSocial Reward economy in order to reach more people whose lives you changethrough your expertise.

In being that advocate, I also focuson your mindset to inspire you to keep moving in the direction of your dreams. The entrepreneurial journey always beginswith mindset.

Given that, I have a uniqueno-gimmick gift for you from one of my mentors. I am paying-it-forward todaywith high content information and how-to-mindset-tools that will help youattract new clients.

I share in her success mindset thatif we have expertise that will expand life - be sure to market and offer thoseservices and/or give it away as a gift.

One of my lead multi-million dollarmentors, Fabienne Fredrickson,is allowing us to pay it forward with this very unique business guide for FREE,but there is a time limit to its availability. So don't delay. She won'thave it available for free very long.

Her 34-page pdf download is based onher personal techniques as a multi-millionaire entrepreneur using Universal Lawand mindset that helped get her to the million dollar mark and beyond. Ilearned these from her 2 yrs ago and this stuff works! I'm on the path to my dreams as I do with my clients.

Iknow some of you are skeptical about Universal Law, but trust me – Fabienne andplenty other mentors who are consistently earning 7 figures, use mindset andUniversal law techniques OFTEN. And that means using it like a well-oiled machine – integrated into their daily work with no negotiation. It's aboutbreaking FREE from a set of beliefs that are not serving you and using theunseen energy to partner with you (with faith & trust).

In 2009, while I was being mentored by Fabienne in hergroup program, I watched her go from $350,000 revenues to over $1 million inrevenues inside of 9 months (yes!) while being mentored by David Neagle,another master mindset and Universal Law coach who earns well over multiplemillions coaching others to do the same.

Now don’t be fooled. There is a ton of action to go withthis, but mindset is critical FIRST to your results.

I know you have heard thatmany times from me and you will continue to because you can never be thesuccess you really want (and beyond) without integrating mindset into theequation.

I just implemented several of her techniques for the umpteenth time.I'm excited to see what comes of it. It always works.

Below is the link to her FREE download, “Quick-StartGuide to Attracting 3 New Clients this Month.” She writes, thereis no catch, no opt-in, nothing. Just plain giving.

It's up for a limited time, so don't delay. This guide normally goes for $39 on her site. I have used the techniquesin this guide over the last 2 yrs with great results. I would never recommendsomething that is a waste of your time or has limited results.

Try something new this week, actually read the guide, andlet me know what happens by commenting here on the blog, ok? Enjoy it... Click here for Quick-start-3-clients-mindset-techniques

In gratitude,

Why is storytelling so important to your brand

2011-09-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

Excerpt from my NEW Personal Branding Business eGuide - this guide a must-have in our "Social Reward" economy ~

"Why is storytelling so important to your brand?

People connect to stories. They are humanizing. People can relate to brands through stories. We are looking to tell your story, your life via your brand that inspires others to take an action. Then, the tech tools make sense and become easy.

Your personal brand is your mark in the world as an authentic, natural, organic, expression of who you are.

... The content of your personal brand creates a strong emotional connection to the heart, mind, spirit, and soul of your market. This is where conversion happens. Here’s what you must do first. Define the compelling YOU.

Ok, now I know you may be saying, “Does my life really need to be told? Are the every day personal and business struggles, successes, and challenges really make a difference for others? Yes. More than you’ll ever know. Trust me, read on."

Your $47 eGuide investment will change the way you show up and interact on Social Media forever. Begin your new results today. http://tinyurl.com/eGuide2011

In gratitude,

Marla
www.eCreativebiz.com

As a business owner, how do you WIN in our "Social Reward" economy?

2011-09-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Is there really a method to the madness of Social Media mania?

You bet. And, it begins with a SAVVY personal brand andstrategy.

Why?

Because we live in a "social reward" economy. Engagement is paramount on Social Media to build relationshipsfor business on these virtual platforms.

Powerful story of a personal brand:

I'm reading the new issue of Vanity Fair magazine where theyhave their annual new establishment 2011 list - it's loaded with technologymillionaires and billionaires who use "crowd-sourcing" and socialmedia gaming to catapult their empires.

London's most influential woman & incredible success story,J.K. Rowling, is #16 of 50 on the list. (Yeah!) Did you know the lastinstallment of Harry Potter films pulled in more than $475 MILLION in theopening weekend?! History making in the film world.

Why do I share this? Rowling started her empire and franchise byusing her personal brand on Social Media as far back as almost 8 yrs ago. Sheused social media communities on Facebook & Twitter to connect to heraudience with her personal brand and 'Single Mom" inspiring story. ( I relate as a single Mom raising a now successful 20 year old entrepreneurial son!)

There is a great deal of confusion, time wasting, andfrustration as entrepreneurs try to navigate their way on Facebook. Twitter,LI, and YouTube,

I say enough is enough. Let me streamline it for you in asimple, easy access way, ok?

I truly care and want to help as many as I canworldwide!

So here's my solution: I created a custom-made 30-page eGuidejust for those who are confused, frustrated, and ready to learn the secretstreamlined strategy that converts online communities to raving fans, friends,and revenues.

Be YOUR own JK Rowling and deliver a dynamic inspiring brandusing my BRAND NEW 34-page eBook, "Quick-Start Secrets to a NEW Compelling Personal Brand, NOW! - How to INNOVATE your marketing to THRIVE in ourSocial Reward Economy."

It's a smart kick-start to understanding the secret personalbranding strategy with tips, tools, stories, formulas and more and it's ONLY$47!

Grab your copy here:

I want you to feel more in control of your brandand how it serves you using Social Media.

I have bulk rates, too if yourprofessional groups want to have discussion events around the topic or you wantto share this with your associates for a lower rate.

No more frustration and time wasting on Social Media, ok? Let's build amovement of savvy, effective social media marketers for the increase of all,ok?

This way we allwin in our new Social Reward economy. :)

Gratitude,

Marla

Marla@ecreativebiz.com

# 1 Hidden Fear Stopping Many Smart Entrepreneurs From Using Social Media

2011-09-10T12:16:00.000-07:00

See that spotlight to the right?

It's yours.

There is a very hidden fear for many smart, eager entrepreneurs when they approach Social Media, regardless of common technology fears.

That fear is "being seen" in a negative light.

Relate? So what happens when that fear is more emotionally charged than the logic of your brain knowing you should be using Social Media for business, often?

You don't show up.

And when you don't show up...there are lives you never enhance with your talents, expertise and gifts.

I know you know how important it is to use Facebook as a networking tool. You may have heard positive stories from your friends and associates in how using FB and Twitter attracted clients and customers; and even brought them closer to lost relatives and friends. BUT, emotionally that voice inside you says, "No way, I'm not getting out there!"

Guess what happens in my trainings when my students learn how to present a savvy, emotionally compelling personal brand that connects to their communities online?

TRANSFORMATION from the inside out, trust and belief.

Here's what happened to a client:

When Caroline first started her training, she had so much fear about "showing up" on Facebook that she literally hid behind a "gratitude rock" as her profile photo. We laugh about it now but she was terrified because she had no idea how to present herself and what would people think? (That's her actual photo)

Now she is a "Rock-Star" on Facebook with a thriving fan page and personal profile. She even has a private group page for her sales team and she is teaching and inspiring them how to use Facebook!Please visit her Fan page and "Like it" at Feminine Brilliance Awakened

This was a breakthrough for her on many levels and I know it can be for you, too.

Learn how to Step Into the Spotlight with confidence and ease online and offline when we discover your personal brand on Thursday, Sept 15th in my LIVE in my 4-hour training in Beverly Hills.

And you can bring a friend for the price of one! Share in the tuition.
You will have the opportunity to coach with me in a small group of entrepreneurs. I have 2 more seats left.

Jump in the car with a friend and come together for 4 hours (breaks included) to learn in a group setting with other women entrepreneurs.

I have several industries represented in the training. Real Estate, Photography, Make-Up Artistry, Video Marketing and yours?!

The whole game of Facebook and networking will change for you once you know how to use the power of personal branding. This builds niche communities that convert to new clients, new members, new patients, and revenues.

The 4-hour training, "Personal Branding Makeover to Illuminate Your Social Media Presence for Maximum Visibility & Increased Profits!" will shift how you use Facebook forever.

In an inspirational delivery, I walk you through an overview of my proven creative, savvy Facebook system and strategies to establishing the know, like & trust factor that convert new contacts to clients. Join a group of eager, savvy women entrepreneurs on Sept 15th for your success!

Here's the registration details.

Questions? Call me at 310.378.1277 or email me: Marla@ecreativebiz.com

In gratitude,

Chief Inspiration Officer

www.eCreativebiz.com

2011-08-31T16:03:00.000-07:00

My heart goes out this guy who is a friend in my Facebook community. He writes in his profile info section:

"This is a new profile. My last one had over 3,000 friends that over half of them were spamming me and sticking me in groups I didn't ask to be in."

So he started over.

Can you imagine what a waste of time and frustration that must have been for him? He's a busy professional and was hoping to build a culture of like minds and potential clients. I hope he has a new strategy so he doesn't create the same result.

Friends, this is why I advocate using a target market strategy when building your cultures and communities. Please be MINDFUL who you accept in your communities; this builds the right audience for your message :)

I'm going to make it easy for you to learn how to build your online communities with savvy and class for you, the small business owner, on Thursday, Sept 15th LIVE in my 4-hour training in Beverly Hills.

The deadline for the early rate ends Friday Sept 2 midnight. BUT I am going to sweeten the deal. For the next 24 hours till midnight Sept 1 - I am giving you the power of a personal brand in collaboration with how to use Facebook's tools and apps training for $97! That's $100 off the early rate! It's $197 now and goes up to $297 on Saturday. Grab a seat - I only have a few left in my private training room.

I use High Tech with High Touch.

The whole game of Facebook will change for you once you know how to use the power of personal branding (in a strategic, savvy way). This builds niche communities that convert to new clients, new members, new patients, and revenues.

Clients have to say...

"I'm so very grateful for the clarity that is presenting itself as I've been working with you on my personal brand. What seemed to be a struggle is now becoming easier than I could have imagined. I can hardly wait for our next session. Thank you Marla! Have a beautiful day!"

-- Brenda Morken, Financial Advocate for Women and Children's Fiscal Well Being

I'm delivering the intro training for the small business entrepreneur who wants a quick but comprehensive education in how to build relationships for business using Facebook.

The training, "Personal Branding Makeover to Illuminate Your Social Media Presence for Maximum Visibility & Increased Profits!" will shift how you use Facebook forever.

I'll walk you through an overview of my proven creative, savvy Facebook system and secrets to establishing the know, like & trust factor that convert new contacts to clients.

Remember, the $97 investment goes away Thursday eve at midnight. I would love to be your guide to helping you streamline your time and strategize your efforts to make smart contacts and revenues on Facebook.

Let's collaborate with other small business owners on Sept 15th for your success!

Here's the registration details.

I'll open my phone to questions. Call me if you have questions. 310.378.1277.

In gratitude,

I change up the entire game of Facebook when we begin developing your personal brand

2011-08-22T18:46:00.000-07:00

As a driven, savvy entrepreneur, you are on Facebook and Twitter (perhaps mostly Facebook) and you are somewhat comfortable with some of the tools, applications, and pages.

However, you know there are strategies to use on Facebook for business but have no idea what they are - so you plug along at it with no real plan or strategy. You just know the visibility on Facebook, when done correctly, is very powerful for business.

But, you admit to yourself it feels like you are wasting a lot of time and it’s too overwhelming. And furthermore, all those changes constantly happening on Facebook has you frustrated and guessing most of the time, which is not a smart use of your precious time.

I know. I hear this all the time. When my clients come to me for private in-depth training and coaching over several months, I change up the entire game of Facebook when we begin developing their personal brand – and that’s when the lights go on and my clients begin to see the big picture. And then they get excited.

Really excited.

I want you to experience a similar success. I have designed a small private group setting for an entry level investment just for you. I know there are several of you in the local Los Angeles and Orange County areas who really want help and have been hoping for this expertise, but either time or money has stopped you.

I have the answer to your dilemma on Sept 15th live in Los Angeles up close and personal.
Read on.

The Missing Piece in Your Social Media Marketing System That Dramatically Slows Your List Building!

2011-08-22T16:56:00.000-07:00

As an eager and driven entrepreneur today, you probably know all your consistent Social Media activities not only help you build quality, valued relationships; deliver a smart, savvy brand while converting your communities to clients; as it strengthens your SEO position. But have you thought about how it affects your website and list building?

Here’s the scenario:

Your intention with your social media marketing is to brand and build visibility. Ideally you drive traffic to your website or blogsite from your Tweets, personal and/or fan page activities, Youtube videos, and group interactions on LinkedIn. Your new friends visit your website to check out your smart content. They are on the site for a few minutes intrigued by your expertise but don’t have much time to finish.

Here’s where the rubber meets the road with effective social media marketing.

Is your site optimized to capture their email so you have the luxury of communicating with them over and over? Or do they leave your site and maybe return later or never?

Does that visitor have the quick option to take advantage of your generous giveaway by entering their email address so they can rush off to their next task knowing you will be sending more great content to enhance their life?

Now I know many of you are very savvy about this. But there are still hundreds I see who have innovative looking sites but they have no compelling invitation for visitors to opt-in to their email list or ezine (electronic personalized magazine or newsletter). Or their opt-in is hidden on the page or the invite is a plain "Join my list."

This is where many fall short and wonder why their online marketing efforts lag behind. A regularly scheduled personalized (1^st person conversational) ezine is critical in building the KNOW LIKE and TRUST factor in collaboration with Social Media marketing; even if you think ezines are passé and no one wants to opt-in to another free giveaway!

Ezines are still one of your best relationship building tools today. Don’t fool yourself.

Savvy online marketers always provide an opt-in at their website to help build their private email list to a permission-based database. These people are interested in you. They want more. Now you have a full marketing system.

Here are the 4 reasons why an ezine is STILL powerful regardless of what you may have heard lately:

1. Your personality is your best asset in today’s marketing. No one can duplicate who you are. As a result, you take yourself out of the competition. When you reach out to your clients in a personal way consistently online (pace it – don’t overwhelm them) and nurture that relationship online (as well as offline) via your custom personality-driven ezine, you hedge the competition and build more loyal clients. In today's overly saturated market, you MUST be consistent with your online marketing to build the know, like & trust factor. (even if you think it's not necessary).

2. Relationships. Your subscribers do read your ezine, that’s why they signed up. They see you as a real person on the other side of the computer screen. You are no longer just a business office blasting out info. You are a human running a biz. You are relatable. This is relationship building every week or month year round. Your email list is your hidden gold, regardless of how much you think it does or does not generate money. People need nurturing and connection; just like you. Your referrals come from the ezine whether you realize it not. It’s revenue generating.

3. When your readers genuinely like you and believe you offer them a value with your articles, tips, and info - they look forward to hearing from you (really!). Always deliver value, connection, and something personal to keep feeding the loyalty. They will pay attention when you have a new product or service to offer. They gave you permission to do so by agreeing to receive your ezine.

4. And, it's all about timing for people when it comes to reaching out to you or calling the office. The more you show up in their email box with fun, innovative, interesting, personal info the better chance you have of a new client, fan, industry contact, joint venture.

There's my soapbox! Please do not neglect the power of your ezine. The voice of your ezine is very important even if you think people don't feel that way. They do.

Would love to have you JOIN my entrepreneurial community ezine! Join in the column to your right.

Much gratitude,

Who cares what I post on Facebook?

2011-08-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

While out in the field with hundreds of entrepreneurs, here are some of the perceptions of Facebook many entrepreneurs believe to be true. See if you relate:

Who cares what I post on FB?

I don’t have the time - it’s too much work
I’m a private person; I don’t want people knowing my life.

Below are my answers to these legitimate concerns that define what is possible for you. My respected clients have come to know the truth and reality of the power of Facebook:

Who cares what I post on Facebook?

When you are strategic with whom you allow into your friend community and invite to your fan page, the “right” people will not only care about what you post, they will engage with you and want to build relationships. There are topics that will create engagement.

I don’t have the time - it’s too much work

I agree it is a lot work when you don’t have a simple system and strategy. There is a “method to the madness” of social media where it creates lead generation and quality contacts for personal and professional development. I do not want you on Facebook longer than 10 min a day (M-F) using both your smart-phone and laptop! It’s all about being streamlined. Your time is precious. FB time is revenue producing time. The amount of people interested in you and your expertise is vast and plentiful on Facebook. Be smart. Get on it! You are honestly leaving quality relationships, rich info, and money on the table each day you avoid learning how to use this expansive tool.

I’m a private person; I don’t want people knowing my life.

Many of us are private. However, there are ways to be SAVVY and sophisticated with your content - that turns you into a respected contributor to Facebook and people’s lives. Learn how to reveal just enough to create engagement and interest while delivering a brilliant personal brand that builds your reputation and business revenues. Plus there are privacy settings to ease your mind. :)

Those of you in the Los Angeles area or those who are willing to fly in and invest in you, I will be bold enough to ask you to change your plans on Friday, August 12th from 10-2 and attend "Personal Branding Makeover to Illuminate Your Social Media Presence for Maximum Visibility and Increased Profits" 4-hour quick training to change the way you experience and use Facebook for business.

The training is not just technology. It’s about strategy, how you show up in the world, and how you shift your mindset about the purpose of Facebook to build your business. There is a personal transformation involved. Promise. :) Click here for testimonials

Take advantage of my 20+ years of Hollywood branding expertise combined with my creative social media and online marketing systems to make LIFE easier for you.

Join me for a 4-hour high content introductory course that will walk you through my proven creative, savvy Facebook system and secrets to establishing the know, like & trust factor that convert new contacts to clients.

Personal branding is no longer an option; it's a necessity in business.

Click here for the details and simple registration.

Always in support of your success,

Marla

Raising your standards = all the rewards vs. just good results

2011-07-18T18:56:00.000-07:00

Personal branding in business today is not a luxury; it's a necessity if you are to hedge the
competition and stand out among the sea of entrepreneurs who are marketing without a brand.

See, as business owners, we need to be delivering a brand; not marketing a business.

I am encouraging you to raise your standards in how you market so that you are in alignment with the way our NEW economy is requiring us to be and do.

Raising your standards (in anything) can look like this:

Direct from Tony Robbins' philosophy - the following illustration fits well with evaluating your level of standards in your marketing and how one small significant change can take you from good to outstanding in your results.

It all begins and ends with raising your standards in life. Here are the results you can expect from being poor, good, excellent, or outstanding in whatever you do. Starting at poor standards, you have quite a way to go to move up to the good category. Then there is still another big jump from good to excellent. But, the gap between excellent and outstanding is one small, significant step to creating all the rewards.

(Check out the graph by clicking on the image)

Ready to raise your standards? Start by emailing me at Marla@ecreativebiz.com or calling 310.378.1277 with a request for a complimentary private personal branding discovery call.

We will raise your standards and design a plan to create outstanding results. Taking requests for the discovery calls ONLY till Friday July 22.

In support of your success,
Marla

From Plainsville to Hollywood

2011-07-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

I'm using my Hollywood Red Carpet days to help you brand YOU. A personal brand can be powerful even outside of Hollywood! So let's take you from Plainsville to Hollywood to illuminate your voice, image and message.

And it all starts from the inside out.

Who are you to your market? Are they clear with your message? Your expertise? How you can be the solution to their challenge? How about how YOU feel about you? What passions light you up? Where do you most feel alive? The answers to these questions (and more) make a potent brand.

Today's social media marketing requires us to be a SAVVY personal brand with compelling content that resonates with your market. And I might add, "content is queen" in the world of social media. Be outstanding in your content, which is part of your brand, and you will have the world at your fingertips.

So where do you start?

Click here for my Top 10 Facebook Strategies That Save Time and Frustration and Turn YOU into a Savvy, Smart Marketer Who Creates Results.

A Secret to Success in Social Media is "Be Resourceful!"

2011-07-11T15:57:00.000-07:00

Does this scenario sound familiar?

You are looking for a specific niche or industry to connect to. You search for that name in the search box on Facebook. Let's say your target market is women interior designers who cater to upscale-high end homeowners who are seeking custom made closets and cabinetry.

You enter the name "Interior Designers" and maybe add a specific location or specialty. What comes up much like Google is fan & group pages and people that match that name. You find several Interior Designers and go "like" their page. You might even post a few hellos or comments on the fan page to start the connection.

Then what? Your goal is to make a personal connection in a private message to open the discussion.

But how do you find the owner of the page in order to start that communication? It isn't always easy. The secret to success is being "resourceful."

Not sure where to start? No problem, I explain what to do on the Social Media Savvy Culture Club forum. And the best part? Forum access is free to all members!

Not yet a member? Join my year-round group coaching program for less than $2.00 a day where you can find like minds, learn how to build a SAVVY personal brand and monetize your business on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and LI.

What does your brand say about you?

2011-07-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

Have you been guessing who you truly are to your market? It all begins with your personal brand and how you show up in your marketing, especially on Social Media.

"If you want to stay relevant and competitive in the coming years – it does not matter if you are in coaching, fitness, speaking, writing, sales, tech, medicine, finance, publishing, event planning – you name it –
you need to develop and grow your brand."

Everyone, EVERYONE needs to start thinking of themselves as a brand.

It is no longer an option; it’s a necessity”

-Gary Vaynerchuk, author of CRUSH IT!

Yes Gary! I love his stuff. He's so spot on.

So the story goes like this…

Private clients come to me for what they think is Social Media training and personal branding identity. What happens then is magical. My passion as a coach is to guide you through a metamorphosis from who you think you are to who you really are to your market. Social Media Marketing requires YOU be the brand and that is not easy to define for most entrepreneurs looking to monetize (make money from) their activity on Facebook, Twitter, LI, and Youtube.

Private client Caroline Lockhart of Feminine Brilliance Awakened was a perfect example of an ideal transformation that led to a new brand and new purpose,

“So, who do you market on Facebook? You or your direct sales company. And how do you "show up" on social media to create a win/win for you, your team, your company, and the direct sales industry?”

This has been my challenge, and why I ended up hiring a social media coach to help me learn how to build a direct sales business with an entrepreneurial mindset. What started out as a Facebook Training, turned into something much bigger. My coach walked me through a metamorphosis in how to market me as the brand first; not my products and services. Personal branding is key to being successful in your marketing today because social media is relationship marketing, building the "know-like-trust factor" in this virtual world called Facebook. It was here that I had a personal breakthrough, because even though I had achieved so much with my direct sales business, I had no idea how to market me as a brand, or help my team do the same. This is true for most direct sellers today.” --More on her journey click here

Discover your SAVVY brand from the inside out. Be ready to transform how you "experience" social media and the results you create for your business. Stop missing the mark with your potential clients who are on Facebook and Twitter in droves and STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT with verve and vigor!

New personal branding and social media savvy client Angel Quintana writes...

"You are truly a gifted mentor. Am I excited? Understatement! I've already done half the assignments! Can't wait to see what happens next. So very honored to be working with you. xox" Angel, www.lifeaccordingtoangel.com

Are you ready to discover how to monetize your brand?

I'm scheduling (5) 45 min Discovery calls between Monday July 11th - July 27th. Grab your spot now before they fill up. In your discovery call we will uncover the brilliance you know you are but have been afraid of showing up for fear of a variety of reasons (you know what yours is) or you just plain have no idea how to find it and HOW to FLAUNT it in a SAVVY way so your marketing speaks to you and how your expertise serves your market. :)

Please email me at Marla@eceativebiz.com for your options to book a slot! Want to know more about me? Please visit www.ecreativebiz.com - You'll see there I spent over 20 years in the entertainment biz as a publicist for celebrities, visual and performing artists. I LOVE helping you design that smart, savvy, bright brand that inspires others to hire you!

Here's to your SHINING GLORY that creates results and happy lives!

In gratitude,

Marla

5 "Back to Basics" Facebook TIPS That Will Demystify Your Efforts

2011-07-09T00:54:00.000-07:00

For those who have coached with me, this will be a reminder. For those new to my world, this will be a new perspective in how you make Facebook work for business.

1. Your main goal in sending a friend request is to just introduce yourself and invite them to be a friend in your network. Nothing else. No selling. No promotion. Find something you have in common with them to break the ice. The intention of FB is to network and build your "social currency."

2. Knowing who your target market profile is CORE to all you do. There are some of you that have a large amount of "likes" on their fan pages (fans) - but that does not mean much unless they represent your target market. Why? The whole reason you are investing time on FB as a business owner is to build contacts, network with the right people and audience, and allow conversion on some level to revenues.

3. Please don't neglect your personal page. That is the first part of the CORE strategy. Without building the know, like & trust factor, you become known as the person who only cares about selling rather than building a relationship. And that would be counterproductive.

4. It's never only about your fan page. Build the right communities and culture and you will see the money flow. If not, expect a great deal of wasted time. I care way too much about your time and efforts.

5. Speaking of conversion, be sure to “optimize” your postings to convert to leads. Meaning, post links on your page that either lead to your website to join your ezine community or a landing page that captures names for you email list. The subscriber receives good rich content (your expertise) in form of a CD, report, or digital download in exchange for their email. If you want to take it further,
I was introduced Hubspot blog where they created a fan page conversion app. The app enables users to easily convert new Likes of your Page into leads by presenting new visitors with a conversion form for an offer immediately after they click "Like."

5 Straight-up Truths About Facebook & Twitter as Marketing Tools: Be a Savvy Steward of Your Social Media Marketing (Etiquette)

2011-07-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

As dedicated, passionate entrepreneurs, we have been using Social Media for our branding and relationship marketing for a while now.

Social media is not new anymore; it's just intelligent business.

Over the last three years, this remarkable platform has truly transformed the way we live, work, and play.

I am grateful for this brilliant PR and marketing tool for you and I! I have experienced great success as have my coaching clients when using Facebook strategically and systematically. However, if you are like me, I find not everyone on Facebook and Twitter to be mindful or responsible – or what I call savvy stewards of their posts and strategies. Yes, I agree not everyone is using Social Media for business, but those who are really would benefit more if they employ quality, effective and responsible strategies.

Perhaps you can relate, so I have composed five REAL straight-up truths about being a savvy steward of your Facebook and Twitter efforts. I may be giving voice to what you have been wanting to express, yet did not have the courage to say so.

With compassion and respect, here goes.

1. Social Media is first and foremost about building quality relationships in a community format, while delivering your personal brand (storytelling) via your profile not just a fan page. Watch your mindset and intention as you post. Gratitude, appreciation, kindness, giving, and serving are all energetically responsible intentions. Success on this platform is building the KNOW, LIKE, & TRUST factor first to prospective and existing community members, selling/promoting second. Social Media is the NEW PR.

2. You engage your friends, fans, & group members to interact with you by posting and commenting about compelling, relevant business/industry info, inspiration, contacts, quality personal info, cultural events, positive thoughts, dynamic photos, and videos. It's about the law of increase for yourself and others. Ask the question: "How can I serve others in their business and personal life?" It's not about posting or commenting mundane, irrelevant, overly opinionated items. Being savvy is about how we can collaborate together; interact.

3. You are aspiring to build a personal brand (you) that serves others in a quality, life affirming manner. Your expertise and personality are keys to building relationships just like offline activities.
In other words, promote your programs, book release, client testimonials, product or service in a personal way that speaks to your authenticity and the needs of your community (target market).

4. I liken Social Media to a game of golf. You are having a good time socializing in a casual, enjoyable environment as you play a mindful game that is enhanced by the quality discussions and interactions with your golf partners. With that, you build the KNOW LIKE TRUST and deals go down on the golf course; as they do on Facebook and Twitter. New clients and customers will show up as a result of your consistent postings (and that's not hard or time consuming when I teach it!) and peer-to-peer marketing.

5. Become a respected resource and expert in your field using Facebook and Twitter. This is built around your brilliance as you inspire others. You build communities based on giving and receiving; the law of circulation. It's about collaborating for the highest good of all.

Authenticity & Transparency are the new black.

The Secret to Prosperity Proverb

If you want 1 year of prosperity, grow grain.
If you want 10 years of prosperity, grow trees.
If you want 100 years of prosperity, grow people.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? Please be my guest as long as you include this complete blurb: Marla Dennis, online marketing & mindset success coach with over two decades in entertainment public relations and talent management, publishes Step into the Spotlight bi-weekly ezine. Join her success community of entrepreneurs who use social media and online marketing as powerful revenue producing activities while employing a wealth mindset to manifest increased results! Please visit www.eCreativebiz.com and www.inspirationlounge.blogspot.com.

Talk about POWER video marketing! You'll want this service.

2011-06-06T23:33:00.000-07:00

With the Video Marketing Playshop just a few weeks away, I wanted to give you a peek at some of the content we will be offering -- and I am excited about this one in particular.

From one of my guest experts who will be featured in the Playshop and is scheduled for our August Social Media Savvy Culture Club monthly call, I am grateful to bring you a guest article by Jennifer Goodwin of http://howtogovirtual.com/

Although YouTube is powerful enough to handle your viral video marketing alone - but paired with TubeMogul, your video marketing campaign will blast off!

What is TubeMogul? If you are familiar our favorites - Ping.fm or Hootsuite you know this service will send your status updates out to ALL of your social networks at the same time without you having to log in to each and every service to copy the same information to your viewers.

Well, TubeMogul does the same thing, but for videos.

It takes your video from your computer or on the web (premium accounts) and sends it out to the top video hosting sites. Now that’s exciting!

Here are the initial BENEFITS of TubeMogul:

· Saves time and bandwidth uploading to ONE site
· It is free up to a certain number of uploads per month
· It provides tracking/analytics
· It gets your videos out to many more eyeballs

Technically, it utilizes a system known as OneLoad that requires a video to be uploaded once in order for it to send it out to all the different networking sites of your choice.

And even better, after uploading and sending out to all those other sites, TubeMogul will tell you which videos are performing best, who’s viewing your videos, location of your viewers, and time spent on your video.

TubeMogul supports distribution to over 25 different video hosting sites. All users get access to a set of general video sites that accept all types of content. Users who want to upload to specialized content sites (e.g. CarDomain, etc.) will be granted access based on the type of content they upload.

Here are the general access sites:

Blip.tv

Dailymotion

Facebook

Flickr*

iTunes

Metacafe

MySpace

Photobucket

Twitter

Veoh

Vimeo Plus

YouTube

Content Specific Sites

Bing

Brightcove

CarDomain

GrindTV

Howcast

Hulu (Content Partners)

iFood.TV

sevenload

Sportpost

Streetfire

StupidVideos

Viddler

If you need any help, TubeMogul’s site offers some great videos and our favorite “set it up” team over at www.internetGIRLfriday.com can take care of getting it squared away for you!

Rank higher in Google - the easy way!

2011-06-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wished that your business was on the first page of Google for your keywords? I bet you have!

SEO has become a common term among online business owners. Everyone has a different trick they swear will get you to the top, but it doesn't have to be that hard!

How can you do it? With video marketing!

Americans now spend more time watching videos each month on YouTube than they do searching on Google. Even YouTube mobile gets over 100 million views a day!

And with blended searches on Google, a video is 50 times more likely to get a first-page Google ranking than a text page.

There has never been a better time to dig out your camera and have some fun! Engage your audience in an authentic way through video.

I know it can be scary, but it's worth it. Not sure where to even start? That's where Chris and I come in. We will be walking you (and your friends) through a 5-step system to produce and market your 1st or updated personally branded video so you can market effectively and powerfully.

Grab a seat at our Playshop before the $297 rate goes away at midnight Pacific tonight - even if you have to fly in for the excellent content!

Join us for some fun on the beach and finally move up in the Google rankings! Details here.

It's really not about the money; it almost never is...it's about living a lifestyle

2011-06-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

"The goal may be to earn a certain amount of money. Yet, it's really not about the money; it almost never is...it's about living a lifestyle."

- Ramit Sethi of "Find Your First Profitable Idea"

When I read that mind-shifting quote, I had one of those aha moments as I re-read (re-read) that from an email one of my Master coaches sent me.

Then at dinner Friday evening with one of my long-standing valued clients, we were discussing the coaching program he was in that helped him build a lifestyle not necessarily a business - but a business that works on leverage, systems while supporting his ideal lifestyle. I was so impressed with his results. He loves golf and rarely had time to golf in the "old way" he used to run his dental practice. Now he is playing golf twice a week on an average and works less but accomplishes more. Very, very inspiring.

See, we always attract the right info at the precise moment we need it. The Universe just works in that way. I had been asking for guidance from my intuition to direct me to a new way of thinking because lately the stresses of daily life and all the determination of hard work had clouded my real reason for serving people in the best way I know how. Yes, I am in business to serve others to succeed, however, what is it that we ALL really are seeking?

It's that sometimes elusive, all encompassing LIFESTYLE we deeply desire. As entrepreneurs - the last thing we want is to be a slave to our business where the business is running us instead of us running it. I'm learning it's not about the money; it's what that money, discipline, and systems can provide for us.

So would you not agree then what we really are after is a lifestyle - NOT the money?

So, I have been in deep thought with "It's not a business I am building; it's a lifestyle." As part of my process and soul searching, I am writing down the exact details of what that lifestyle FEELS like and looks like AS IF it's already here. And, I trust in the Universe to present to me opportunities, people, events, and more to lead me to that LIFESTYLE. I have no idea HOW that will happen, but I am willing to get clear on how that LIFESTYLE feels and looks and just trust and take action.

I encourage you then to take a moment and a deep breath to ask yourself the same thing, "What is the lifestyle I am really desiring? Isn't this what I am truly wanting with all this hard work?" And then write it out, review it often, but surrender and let go in how it will happen.

I'd love to know how it goes for you. There's plenty of room to post here. Please do. There is power in numbers (and the energy behind it). Bring it on.

In gratitude,
Marla

Find Your Tribes on Facebook - Transform Your Life

2011-05-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Coaches love to help people transform. We identify our client challenges, offer solutions to their pains and struggles and take them through a process for breakthrough. As a Personal Branding & Social Media Coach for entrepreneurs, the most rewarding feedback is when we experience the transformation of a client right before our eyes.

One of my "star" clients, Caroline Lockhart from Hopkinton, Mass., could not have said it better when it comes to learning how to use Facebook strategically and the unexpected personal transformation that shows up in the process of creating a personal brand. Below is her authentic commentary encouraging others to jump into my signature Facebook 4-part teleseries, “Unleash the Power of Facebook And Social Currency to Generate Higher Revenues Using the Know, Like & Trust Factor,” which I am offering for a limited time for only $97. I normally require $297 for this transformative and business building series.

I give you from the words of Caroline...

Find Your Tribes on Facebook!

Learn to Navigate & Experience Facebook with Confidence

What you do with this knowledge WILL transform
your life & business!

Facebook is a powerful world to connect to the events & people that are important to you, but if you don't know how to use the tools, or how to show up on Facebook - you are missing out. This training is for the success minded individual who wants to show up on Facebook & rock it!! You'll here comments like, "Wow, you really know your stuff," "you seem to really know what you are doing, I'm too scared to post anything."

Once you understand how to navigate the tools on FB, you will have the confidence to begin your journey in Social Media. You will begin to come out of hiding and share more of yourself, your thoughts, opinions, expertise, and make an impact with communities of people who have the same interests as you. (your tribe).

Imagine having the knowledge to discover a whole new you, or perhaps create a richer experience for your life right now by connecting with the right target market for your business, lifelong friends, and make new friends with people all over the world. This knowledge is designed to help you build a more profitable business. The possiblilites are endless.....

This teleseries provides you with the training to MASTER Facebook. This isn't a little course on Facebook, it's a training that will teach you how to position yourself in a light that reflects the uniqueness of you! You will learn from Marla, a Social Media Expert & Celebrity Publicist, so you know you are in good hands, as she will always help you shine in the most authentic light!!

Registration is available now. But don't hesitate. The rate will go up to $297. Click here.

See you on the other side of transformation. :)

2011-05-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

We come from a tribe (society) where we try so hard to hide who we are and hide behind our story of embarrassment, humility, indifference. But it is in the texture and fabric of your life that connects the human spirit. The more we become available, vulnerable, transparent, the more lives we will touch with our brilliance (expertise). Personal branding today is more required than ever as a business owner regardless of industry. In our virtual lives, we need emotional connection to create know, like, trust. With social media marketing and emotionally compelling videos, we can create engagement and social currency.

Cool story from my publicist days in Hollywood. My choreographer client who worked with Gwen Stefani on her "Hollaback Girl" music video was in the running for a Video Music Award in 2005. I pursued media like crazy with my client's short personal branded videos to help her gain exposure to win the VMA. It worked. She won the VMA for BEST CHOREOGRAPHY that year in Miami. What a blast that was being with her in South Beach celebrating!!

Does video marketing work? Heck YES!

2005 Video Music Awards was amazing! And the even more exciting thing that happened that same weekend - the viral video story I landed in LA Times front page business section for Red Guitar Films released and changed his firm's visibility forever.

Chris was a thought leader back then when social media and video marketing was not even on the map. I remember Chris trying to encourage his clients to do viral videos instead of costly TV commercials and they were not very receptive. Now look! Businesses can't sustain themselves without it! Grateful to be doing the Video Playshop with Chris! Our guests will be receiving so much value for their time and money!

One of the many techniques we will be teaching at the Video Marketing Playshop is how to be CREATIVE in using and distributing QR codes! Check out this custom QR code Chris Lombardo of Red Guitar Films did for us. http://www.facebook.com/SocialMediaSavvy

Early Bird Rates only till June 6th. Save $200 by reserving your seat now! Playshop at a cool boutique hotel in Hermosa Beach, California. Come play at the beach with us! Go to www.videoplayshop.co m

In gratitude,
Marla

The Most Powerful Form of Marketing is Testimonials (and Referrals)

2011-05-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

Chris and I were brainstorming yesterday about the Playshop and figuring out what would be most compelling for you to WANT to be at the Playshop besides the creative inspiration and learning how to shoot, edit (music, voice over, etc) and market the video.

Here's what we know is one of the most powerful forms of marketing: Referrals and Testimonials. So, one of the styles of video we will be coaching you on is how to produce an emotionally compelling testimonial video that speaks to your brand and how your expertise and brilliance transformed your client's life in some way.

The secret strategy to connecting humans to each other online is emotions (heart). People remember stories.

By using state of the HEART technology via Social Media marketing with your signature video, you turn your audience into viral advocates, customers, clients, patients and into RAVING FANS! And who doesn't want that?

Here's how life can change when you deliver emotionally compelling testimonial videos:

You raise the consistency of attracting your ideal client, customer, or patient and that is a GREAT feeling!
Your DOUBT diminishes who you can best serve because you are very clear on the needs of that market and how you emotionally connect with them and they of you.
You receive more consistently unsolicited gifts of appreciation and gratitude for transforming your client's lives.
You find you are treated with much more respect by clients, customers or patients because you are attracting the RIGHT ones with your brand.
You stop worrying whether your marketing is effective and received well by your market because they GET you and RELATE with you!
Your revenues increase because you are experienced as true to your brand and the integrity of what you bring to others.
You are delighted to market your video and other brand videos because you are seeing results!

Not quite sure where to start? This is where Chris Lombardo and I come in.

You and your friends need to be at our Video Marketing Playshop. Chris Lombardo and I will be walking you (and your friends) through a 5-step system to produce and market your 1st or updated personally branded video (bring your own video cam)... so you can market effectively and powerfully.

Now is your time to: STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT.

I invite you to attend -- no, I URGE you to attend if you are serious about your time and money. No more guessing rich keywords and tips and tricks to get into high ranking on Google.

You can also pay it forward to those in your community by encouraging them to register with you before May16th for the EARLY bird rate. In fact, we are offering a BRING A FRIEND option. So grab someone and split the cost! Not sure if the date works? Look at how you can rearrange your schedule to be there. It's that important.

Here are the details: www.videoplayshop.com.

Come play with us at the beach on June 24th!

The wealth of your brand lies in telling emotionally compelling stories via video

2011-05-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

I want to get to the heart of my message here with you. The core of our 6/24 Video Marketing Playshop is "Tell the Sell."

The moving pictures of your brand must tell an emotionally compelling story - and what better story than that of your client testimonial.

Write this down, highlight this, please take note of this: The wealth of your brand lies in the telling stories via video.Technology is evolving & video will play an even more prominent role in your business than it is now. Better be prepared for what lies ahead.

Chris Lombardo and I are taking video marketing to a whole new level emotionally, creatively and effectively. The future requires all of us to be more creative and emotionally compelling in our video delivery. There are plenty of applications, tools, and sites with simple video producing capabilities.

We promise - your creative entrepreneurial spirit will surface on 6/24. Register for Early Rate before 5/16. Your NEW clients are waiting right in the center of the heart of your brand. www.videoplayshop.com. Let us show you how to reach them.

Here is an EXCELLENT example of how to "Tell to sell." http://bit.ly/tell2sell

SEO Power - A video is 50 times more likely...

2011-05-10T04:53:00.000-07:00

I probably don't need to tell you video marketing is the HOT channel for highly effective marketing and conversion.

And, I probably don't need to say how crucial it is to use video marketing as part of your SEO (search engine optimization) plan. Meaning, the combination of all the online activity you have from your website and your social media (all networks), and blog postings. They all feed into your GOOGLE rankings. Video catches the attention of the search engine spiders FIRST that look for your content.

But you know that, right?

Here's what I hear all the time: "Why am I not on page 1 of Google in my categories?" Everyone wants to be on page one. BUT is everyone using video in all their marketing? And how much? And where? And is it part of their personal brand?

With these statistics...

YouTube is monetizing (helping you make money) over 2 billion video views per week globally. (That's GLOBALLY)
Americans watch more videos a month on YouTube than they conduct searches on Google.
A video is 50 times more likely to get a first-page Google ranking than a text page. (Did you really get that?)

...you and your friends need to be at our NEW Video Marketing Playshop. Chris Lombardo and I will be walking you (and your friends) through a 5-step system to produce and market your 1st or updated personally branded video (bring your own vid cam)... so you can market effectively and powerfully.

Afraid of the camera and how you look? We make it fun and Chris is an expert at directing. You should have seen our first try at our videos for this promo :) Now is your time to:

STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT.

I invite you to attend -- no, I URGE you to attend if you are serious about your time and money. No more guessing rich keywords and tips and tricks to get into high ranking on Google. You can also pay it forward to those in your community by encouraging them to register with you before May16th for the EARLY bird rate. In fact, we are offering a BRING A FRIEND option. So grab someone and split the cost! Not sure if the date works? Look at how you can rearrange your schedule to be there. It's that important.

Here are the details: www.videoplayshop.com.

Come play with us at the beach on June 24th!

State of the HEART technology via Social Media marketing

2011-05-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

Today's MUST HAVE marketing technique is PERSONAL BRANDING with video where your story – your life – your personality becomes the focal point of your brand. This is where humans connect on an emotional level.

People remember stories.

By using state of the HEART technology via Social Media marketing with your signature video, you turn your audience into viral advocates, customers, clients, patients and into RAVING FANS!

Our Video Marketing Playshop will inspire and awaken your imagination and possibility thinking to craft a two-minute video (or less) while having fun, interaction, and creative stimulation.

All those worries will transform into action and excitement.

When you emotionally connect to your own brand
(your story- your brilliance - your talents and how they serve others in a BIG way)
this is how life can look:

You more consistently attract the ideal client, customer, or patient and that is a GREAT feeling!
Your DOUBT diminishes who you can best serve because you are very clear on the needs of that market and how you emotionally connect with them and they of you.
You receive more consistently unsolicited gifts of appreciation and gratitude for transforming your client's lives.
You find you are treated with much more respect by clients, customers or patients because you are attracting the RIGHT ones with your brand.
You stop worrying whether your marketing is effective and received well by your market because they GET you and RELATE with you!
Your revenues increase because you are experienced as true to your brand and the integrity of what you bring to others.
You are delighted to market your video and other brand videos because you are seeing results!

The Playshop is about converting the rich humanity of your life
into a moving story - as your brand.

We are teaching you the power of digital storytelling via Social Media.

Register NOW!

Early Bird deadline is May 16th!
http://www.videoplayshop.com/

In gratitude,
Marla & Chris

Social Media Savvy Tips: Smartphone mobile marketing

2011-04-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

Did you know QR codes have been popular for years in Japan? They are just now becoming the leading marketing advantage in the U.S.

So how do they work and how do you design one? Easy.

QR Codes are a cell phone readable bar code that can store phone numbers, URL's, email addresses and most any other alphanumeric data. Realtors, Dentists, Online Marketers, Retail businesses, authors, - you name it - are raising the bar in this form of marketing.

I’ve seen very creative ways to use the QR code strategy. Jergens lotion had an ad in PEOPLE magazine where they placed a QR code in the ad that took the reader to a video about taking care of your body. A client of mine sells jewelry so she laminated a business card size QR code and placed it in her purse. Each time she talked to someone in person about her catalog of jewelry, she either used the code with her smartphone to show the catalog or she showed her customer how to upload the QR code reader to their phone and then had them snapshot the QR code into their own phone and review the catalog on the spot!

Go to QRstuff.com for your free conversion and be sure to upload QR Reader app to your smartphone. Your customer takes a snapshot of the code and up comes on their smartphone - your website, video, promo page, special, email, or message right in front of their eyes.

Technology. Amazing. Try the one I have here and see where it takes you. :)

"I'm not emotional" Then THIS is for you! You're marketing may be suffering because....

2011-04-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Today’s virtual world requires us to be as real as possible and the secret to connecting humans to each other online is emotions. (and those who say “I’m not emotional” - this info is especially for you!)

When we have the physical component missing in our interactions online, we must present a strong emotional presence so our contacts will resonate with us and build the KNOW, LIKE, TRUST factor.

And that is where you become CLIENT ATTRACTIVE and convert your communities to revenues.

It’s called Emotional Resonance.

So, in my conversations with entrepreneurs as I advocate how you and your business brand are ONE IN THE SAME - I urge them that a mindset shift must take place or they will surely be left behind.

Good news for you!

As I transition from one-on-one coaching to a more concentrated focus on group programs and workshops and live events based on Social Media marketing, personal branding and online marketing, I wanted to give a gift to you in celebration of this exciting change.

In celebration of this change (it's been scary and exciting all in the one), I am offering for the last time one-on-one phone or in person coaching (if you live in L.A. or want to fly out here) - at low rates.

This is for any one of you who have hesitated to jump into any of my coaching offers, or those who have had the experience with me and want more one-on-one attention with your online and social media marketing. - I am only offering 2 (2 hour) slots and 2 (4 hour ) slots. Once these are snapped up - they are gone at that low rate.

I'd grab this now and bank them! (You can register now and schedule later)

Much like equity, once you have your session - the ROI will turn into equity - results that keep on giving.

I am inviting you to take advantage of my 22 years of personal branding, PR, and marketing results to take you out of your confusion, frustration, and lack of results using Social Media!

Click here for details -- http://bit.ly/mygratitude4ugift

In gratitude,

Marla

Social Media Savvy Culture Club: High Tech with High Touch To Transform Your Business

2011-04-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

Today's marketing evolution from offline to online has taken the form of cultivating well intended cultures of like minds. Meaning, we have expanded our reach as entrepreneurs to a virtual world that has powerfully changed the game of connection that transforms to building a global business for the solopreneur.

And that is incredibly powerful.

Because of Social Media, we have the luxury of creating and nurturing our own hand chosen cultures - (Friend community on FB, our Fan base on our business pages, our Twitter followers, and our contacts on YouTube and groups on LinkedIn). We have far reaching capabilities for our businesses due to the power of Social Media.

BUT, how do you truly monetize this platform and build these online cultures that reflect your values, intentions, brand and target market?

This is why I created the FIRST ever Social Media Savvy Culture Club. This is my "entry level" group coaching program where you can find like minds, learn how to build a SAVVY personal brand and monetize your business on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LI.

The CLUB is where innovative thinkers and doers mastermind to support one another in their challenges and successes. It's a NEW playground for personal growth, money mastery, Social Media savviness, and entrepreneurial inspiration.

An underlying premise to the program and how I encourage entrepreneurs to use Social Media is staying grounded and keeping connected to your offline life. I am not about you losing yourself in the process of becoming savvy in your Social Media efforts. That was a fear of mine early on as an adopter of Social Media and then a coach of the powerful strategies.

Many of us have this fear, as I did, that we will lose touch with our lives because Social Media and technology is so seducing to our senses; hence we lose ourselves in all the techie stuff.

I am very high tech and ALWAYS high touch.

I often catch my breath and pull back so I can stay grounded and connected to my life. I disconnect from high tech for moments in time and reconnect with the rich texture of my life. I aspire the same for you.

This program has been a long time in coming and GEEZ am I glad it's finally here! I've invested plenty in myself (evolution) over the last three years to serve you more and feel good about it!

Would love to have you as part of the CLUB!

For details and benefits of membership, Click here.

The Secret to Living in a Glass House Era: Stepping out of your comfort zone and into the money zone

2011-04-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

In our "Facebook Age" world - every aspect of our lives is changing where everything that once used to be "private" and kept at bay - is now acceptable and almost expected to be shared with others. Anything (well almost) is sharable today because of social media and its powerful effect on our lives. We have gone from seclusion in our homes and offices to an accepted "voyeurism" where we have opened our arms and hearts to collaboration, connection, and expansion in new ways.

So how does this affect you the business owner? It's time to let go of hiding or keeping your life so private from your clients, patients, and customers and be authentic and transparent when delivering your brand on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and LI. Today's marketing requires YOU to be the brand - personal and business are one in the same. No longer separate.

The acceptance of being transparent is still a challenge for most clients who begin their programs. When they come to me - it's usually to learn the technical end of all this digital tools. But what they come to find out is - they have a fear or hesitation of being exposed - living in the limelight - living in a fishbowl, therefore preventing themselves from expanding their business.

No worries. Here are three tips to stepping out of your comfort zone and into the money zone:

1. Take it easy on yourself. Being savvy in Social Media means being classy about the content you post; not overexposed. Be selective about what you share, but always make it authentic and real. Yes, that means being emotionally vulnerable. No "putting on a show or facade " - just real daily stuff with class and care. Your friends and target market require the real you; it gives them permission to do the same. :)

2. Trust ...when you come from authenticity and transparency while using FB or Twitter, it's a natural human response for others to embrace all of who you are. We are all here with the same challenges, fears, concerns and more in life. Compassion is available and plentiful in your online communities. Reach out and RELAX.

3. Your willingness to express the person behind the business will reap rewards. Today's sophisticated consumer wants you to communicate in your own voice (verbal and written) while using Social Media. You create raving fans that know, like, and trust you (and promote you on Facebook & Twitter) when you post emotionally compelling content.

Lead your Social Media communities with soul and state of heart

2011-03-22T11:26:00.001-07:00

Beautiful. An excerpt from Deepak Chopra's The Soul of Leadership:

"A leader’s responsibilities fall into 8 areas: I am responsible for: what I think, how I feel, how I perceive the world, quality of my relationships, my role in society, my immediate environment, my speech and my body. Each can be mastered once you are committed to being guided by your soul. You begin to master not just the art of leadership, but the art of living. Your soul starts to influence you in everything you do, as it does, the gap between you and your soul closes. Wholeness starts to dominate."

Lead your social media communities with soul.

Or are you hiding from your customers on Facebook or Twitter? Are you in fear of appearing less than who you really are? Is the thought of being transparent on Facebook and Twitter make you feel very uncomfortable? Are you resistant to the blending of "personal" and "business" while strategically using Facebook and Twitter?

Find out what’s holding you back and stopping you from leading from your soul ( this is a form of leaving money on the table). Book your 45 min complimentary social media discovery call now. Evaluate how effective you are at monetizing your brand using Facebook and Twitter and design a solution once and for all. Email: Marla@ecreativebiz.com.

In gratitude,
Marla

Connection. The art of storytelling; it's in your DNA. It's the heart and soul of your brand.

2011-03-17T23:55:00.000-07:00

As part of our research for our upcoming Video Marketing PLAYSHOP, my partner Chris Lombardo of Red Guitar Films and my son Taylor attended a Drucker Business Forum lecture yesterday featuring Peter Guber, Hollywood Producer and CEO of Mandalay Entertainment Group. He was on his promotional book tour for his just released title, TELL TO WIN. Peter is a master storyteller given his natural gregarious personality and long term career as a film producer and executive.

As a special BONUS, I gifting you with an article as a way to ignite and inspire your imagination and possibility thinking in terms of your personal brand. I am very passionate about this topic given it's been the core of my past PR career as a publicist and now the heart and soul of my coaching business.

Please allow me to impart some highlights of yesterday's captivating lecture with Peter reflecting content from his new book (which I highly recommend).

Connection. The art of storytelling; it's in your DNA.

It's the heart and soul of your brand.

Your personal brand is your most powerful asset in your business today.

Why? It speaks to your emotional core. It connects you to your audience on your social networks and offline. It’s the leading edge in marketing today. The days of product/service marketing are long gone and replaced by personal brands, which are synonymous with your business. You can no longer separate your “personal” from your “business” while marketing. It’s one-in-the-same. And we have the extraordinary power of Social Media to thank for that.

See, many still have a challenge transitioning their offline world onto the virtual world. And rightfully so. It can be hard to wrap your head around this “thumbnail” size photo of you and expect people to “get” who you are. Today’s marketing requires us to be very authentic and transparent using Social Media because of the nature of this virtual world. The secret is by posting in authentic conversational form 1^st person, we can translate our offline lives onto this virtual platform that offers outstanding networking and relationship building for our businesses. Essentially I am giving you permission to be you in all your marketing! No “business” façade.

The real you in savvy style.

Furthermore, it’s the accumulation of your postings on your networks that form your “personality” and your compelling story, which is your brand. You are delivering YOU as the brand of your business in form of words, videos, photos, etc. Here’s the good news accentuated by Peter Guber in his book,

“There’s a treasure to be discovered, and it’s inside you. Built into your DNA is humanity’s ten-thousand-plus years of telling and listening to oral stories. This veneration of story is a force so powerful and enduring that it has shaped cultures, religions, whole civilizations. Now through telling to win, you can harness this force to achieve your most cherished goals.”

Monetize what comes natural to you. Tell your story and other stories with emotion, drama, compelling twists and turns. Bring the audience in. We are taking people from their head to their hearts as they listen (video) or read your postings with the core of your personal brand at play. When you master the art of storytelling, you can win at most endeavors because you are igniting the common bond: emotion; and that will always move people to action.

So in closing, “Today everyone, whether they know it or not - is in the emotional transportation business. More and more, success is won by creating compelling stories that have the power to move people to action. Simply put, if you can't tell it, you can't sell it." –Peter Guber

To begin forming your personal brand, answer these four questions:

What are your five leading personal qualities that define you the most?
What are five passions that light you up and magnetize people to you?
Five recent successes and gratitudes.
What were some of your most challenging times that resulted in a reinvention or upleveling of your life? (transformation)

The answers to these questions make excellent content for your Social Media postings. Weave in conversation with any one of these. Be creative with how you use these while posting on Facebook or LinkedIn. Stop hiding from your target audience on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Youtube, and speak your truth! Be you. Your mindfully chosen communities will reward you by being loyal and committed to stick around for a while.

And that’s a sign of conversion. That is how you monetize YOU.

To your success!

Marla

eCreativebiz.com

The New Level of Personal Branding. Are you in?

2011-02-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

Personal branding has been taken to a whole new level in the last two years making way for incredible success, especially using social media to brand you and make you visible to thousands, millions.

The secret? Transparency and your real compelling story behind the scenes.

The veil has been taken off and we are showing our true colors. Proof? Just look at the MEGA success Reality TV franchise of The Kardashians. Who would have thought? Look at Justin Bieber's new film - about his story - FAST climb to success. Be real. NO hiding. People want to connect with you and relate to you.

We have the luxury of defining and designing our own brands today with social media unlike in years past where most of the branding was on a “hope and prayer” the newspaper reporter, TV reporter, magazine writer, or radio host got the true essence of we are. Well, you know how that went. NO fault of their own, often the facts were skewed or the journalist gave their professional perspective of the content you were hoping to convey. Hey, it’s their job as a journalist to do so.

But now, it's a whole new way of branding and it's about being unedited, raw and sometimes bold.

The great news…we have our brand in our own hands via YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and more. These avenues have made unknowns into media darlings, reality stars and successful entrepreneurs.

So where do you begin? Understand the art of storytelling in your branding.

Three reasons why storytelling is so important: (resource: Daily Grommet)

People can relate to brands through their stories. Stories are humanizing. People connect with stories.
People remember details and messages more effectively through stories. Storytelling helps people create images in the mind and these images "stick" better than just talk. (So don't shy away from the colorful, quirky details that give your story character.)
Storytelling conveys the unique evolution of your brand. Beyond the benefits and features is the journey of how your business came to be and why it endures.

What’s next for you to monetize your social media marketing by being the real (awesome) you?

Email me at Marla@ecreativebiz.com with a yes for a complimentary 45 min Social Media Discovery Call to discover a glimpse of your personal brand.

I promise I will get back to you within 24 hours or sooner. In that same scheduled call we will discuss the choices in how to monetize your social media marketing by being the brilliant authentic (sometimes off balance – sometimes quirky) you!

I am only offering 5 of these comp calls a month.

These are for those who are serious about wanting the one-on-one attention and investing the time and money into your personal and professional growth.

It's for those who are confused, frustrated and tired of not feeling fulfilled by their marketing and how they show up in the world.

It's time to get real. It's time to shine in your own way. Allow me to give you my brilliance so you can prosper.

Need more proof? Click here to read testimonials at my business fan page.

Then email me. Let’s get you rockin on social media so people take notice.

Let's Walk and Run for Life!

2011-02-15T02:49:00.000-08:00

April 2003 I heard the words from my doctor "You have breast cancer." My life changed forever as you can imagine.

Now almost 8 years later I am thriving and living a life I love.

I turned my challenge into a gift almost immediately after diagnosis. I stepped into activism for Susan G. Komen Foundation. I inspired women and their families for over 6 years when I spoke to audiences large and small about my survivor story and Komen initiatives. I was honored. I then became a board member for two terms.

What a journey.

Now, as a past speaker chair and past board member, I know this organization walks their talk. I am proud and honored to be part of a movement that saves lives in more ways than you can imagine.

I have started a team for the 15th annual Race for the Cure event March 6th 2011 at Dodgers Stadium.

If you have not experienced a Race for the Cure® day, you are in for an emotionally-charged, inspiring and revitalizing memory. Over 10,000 people bring their energy and compassion for a day of fitness and giving back.

Come join my team! Put on your best running shoes, pack your water, (I'm supplying the energy drinks for my team members), and bring an open heart to give all the love you can to this remarkable cause! It only takes a minimum $40 registration fee (or more if you like to donate) by clicking here on my team page.

Please help reach my fundraising goal of $5,000 by making a tax-deductible donation. Serving on the board I saw where over $1 million annually was being disbursed. It's real. Women and programs are being funded all over Los Angeles County.

75% of funds raised remain in LA County/25% go to national headquarters for research.

Come on! Let's have a ball! Get your running shoes on and let's save lives together, ok?

Isn't it Time You Stop Hiding and Show Up on Social Media in a Bigger Way?

2011-02-15T02:04:00.000-08:00

Can we talk? I want you to imagine I am sitting (or standing) right next you. Because I am.

This is not an impersonal email. I just happen to be sitting at my computer right now allowing my heart and soul to reach out to you via this medium.

I am here 100%. So let's get real, ok?

How's your social media marketing REALLY going? Are you building communities that resonate with you? Are you allowing the REAL you to show up through your updates?

Or are you hiding behind the computer hesitant to post something in fear it may come across wrong or not appropriate? Are you afraid of being "seen" in the wrong way?

One of my students in this week's Facebook teleseries said, "I feel so relieved. You (Marla) are giving us permission to just be ourselves while on Facebook and make it ok to shine the light on our brilliance while we serve our expertise to our communities."

See, she and many others are in BIG fear of appearing incorrectly or being too "boastful" about your business, your accomplishments, your lives.

And that is such a BIG lie you tell yourself. (that's ego not spirit)

We are here to shine our lights to inspire others. It's not about you. It's about you showing up in the world in your most authentic light that inspires others to be their best. And Social Media is a gift that allows you to do just that!!

So, as you make yourself visible on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn, --you are marketing you as the brand. You have an obligation to expose your talents that can transform someone's life.

Small or large - you are here to serve.

And this is where my Social Media Savvy brand comes in. I guide you how to be savvy & sophisticated in your presence - your virtual voice online - your image. Because, you then give others permission to do the same and then we have thousands that are serving one another in a BIG way.

I was humbled when I read this comment my student Gina posted Wed on Facebook because she really got what I am here to serve. See if you get it:

"There was such an important theme under tonight's class. As we ALLOW ourselves to SHINE our authentic brilliance, we also assist the rest of the "social consciousness" to evolve!!"

Isn't it time you stop hiding and step up to serve others by being the real brilliant you and show up on social media with all the gusto you've got?

How can you do that?

By replying here with a yes for a complimentary 45 min Social Media Discovery Call to discover a glimpse of your personal brand. In that same call we will discuss the possibilities of you investing in YOU via a VIP day (phone or in person) with me and how it shifts you into monetizing your social media marketing by being the brilliant you.

I am only offering 5 of these comp calls.

These are for those who are serious about wanting the one-on-one attention and investing the time and money into your personal and professional growth.

It's for those who are confused, frustrated and tired of not feeling fulfilled by their marketing and how they show up in the world.

It's time to get real. It's time to shine. Allow me to give you my brilliance so you can prosper.

Just reply. Need more proof? Click here to read testimonials at my business fan page.

Then just reply.

Boost your Know, Like, & Trust Factor on Facebook with Fanpagenotifier.com

2011-02-07T20:51:00.000-08:00

Social Media has changed how we do business and how we market…forever. Big statement. Big truth.

Gone are the days when we relied on local and regional marketing channels to reach our audience in an effort to convert to clients and customers. Our reach is now global thanks to Social Networking sites, which require us to be even more savvy in our building of relationships because of the “virtual world” we now operate in.

Our core online etiquette requires an organic authenticity in our postings as we build the know, like and trust factor with our communities - so that our message and branding comes through clear in this virtual platform.

From my “5 Straight Up Truths about Social Media Marketing,” article:

"Social Media is first and foremost about building quality relationships in a community format. Watch your mindset and intention as you post. Gratitude, appreciation, kindness, giving, and serving are all energetically responsible intentions. It’s not about convincing and prodding. It’s building the KNOW, LIKE, & TRUST factor first to prospective and existing clients, customers or patients; selling/promoting second. Social Media is the NEW PR."

A savvy tool I added to my marketing toolbox a few months ago for building the “KLT” factor and to boost my effectiveness on Facebook while streamlining my time is fanpagenotifier.com. It’s a free fan page application to assist you in nurturing your client, customer or patient relationship(s). Without this application, activities and posts on your fan page or important fan pages you “like” go unnoticed.

Fan page notifier application alerts you via email when someone posts on your fan page wall and it allows you to be notified of important fan pages when the administrator posts to the wall. This is the solution to the complaint I hear quite often, “Why does FB not have a way to communicate to me when someone posts on my fan page?”

This strategy allows you to stay on top of activities from your own fan page and priority fan pages you are a fan of so you may interact in a timely fashion. I am notified via email on my own page, and several client and mentor fan pages so I don’t miss important info.

Now, yes, you do need to maintain these email notifications, but it offers a smart way to stay connected to your most important fan pages. This is revenue producing time!

It’s a simple process to add the application by going to the website and clicking “connect with Facebook.” Then you are brought to a page that lists all your fan pages for you to choose which ones you want to be notified on. I have had clients experience some glitches with the program where it may be a challenge to initiate the application, but a few days of patience will remedy that. Meaning, the program will eventually integrate itself into your Facebook coding.

Come join my fan page at www.facebook.com/socialmediasavvy for current activities in social media, savvy tips, tools, and strategies. And let me know how the application is working for you by posting on my wall, ok?

2011-01-18T12:01:00.001-08:00

I was on a call Monday with my mentors Kendall SummerHawk & Heather Dominick-Kosmicki which offered a healthy reminder about how deeply important it is to be open to RECEIVE support as an entrepreneur.

Like many of us do, (I'm guilty, too), we think we have to do it all ourselves.

But, in truth, we are not supposed to do it all alone.

We are meant to collaborate along the way to success. Our souls are constantly seeking connection. It's natural. And this is exactly why social media is so powerful. We live in the age of connection, collaboration, expansion and increase for all.

If you live in or plan to visit Los Angeles on January 20, I have an opportunity for you to learn the savvy strategies for business using Social Media while shopping for fun clothes.

I am collaborating with my client, Patty Aguilera of Checa Chic Boutique in Santa Monica to bring you a smart, savvy event that will expand your contact base as well as your mind and revenues.

The next 5 ladies to register will have a chance to win one of two gifts: a spot in my upcoming 4-part teleseries starting Feb 2 ( $300 value) or a beautiful winter sweater ($55 value)!! Registration link is http://bit.ly/ChecaChic

Fashion, Shopping, Networking and an innovative Presentation on Social Media Personal Branding

After the last event Patty and I hosted at Checa Chic, our 20 guests walked away with new clothes, new business and an upgraded mindset with savvy strategies for social media success.

We have a pre event Special Rate of $25 which gets you on the VIP registration list and you can sign up here: http://bit.ly/ChecaChic

The boutique can only hold 30 guests comfortably so be sure to get on the VIP list now.

The Social Media Personal Branding presentation will cover:

How opportunity awaits in transparency

What is required of a brand that "sticks"

Why honesty and authenticity must be at the core of all your personal branding

Why a compelling story to brand yourself?

Fan page and personal page strategy for effective marketing

5 branding KEYS that will create a strong presence

The secret behind a week's worth of postings in 30 minutes!

How the two different types of postings in a PR campaign will make you social media SAVVY!

How you can choose an opportunity to work with Marla's expertise!

I would love to meet you in person. Do join us.

Secret Code to landing in the TOP of the Newsfeed; Social Media Q & A

2010-12-09T10:45:00.000-08:00

As a business coach, I partner with you to shift your mindset, marketing strategies/tools, and relationship to money that results in a new way of operating.

The change in today's economy requires us to uplevel our marketing savviness while matching the needs of the NEW sophisticated consumer.

And, the marketing system I coach develops you into a savvy business owner that speaks to this sophisticated consumer.

With that being said, here are some Social Media tools and strategies to either get your started or uplevel what you know already about Facebook.

1. A client asked me how can he stay closer contact with his friend community that consists of his target market while streamlining his time.

Here's what I told him:

One of several simple strategies I recommended to help build the KLT (know like trust factor) is: build custom lists for very specific people who are your target market. Then use your custom lists to save you time as you interact in the newsfeed with them. This blows out wasting time looking for them in your newsfeed.

2. How does Facebook decide on what it is going to post. I have friends who are posting on their pages, but they do not show on my live or recent feedback on my page? How does Facebook prioritize who will get posted on my page? Does that make sense? I only get postings from some of my friends but not all of them. Answer:

Thanks to The Daily Beast, here is the “secret code” to getting seen on the newsfeed: (This could change any day given the ongoing upgrades, but for now here is what I read) Technology is synonymous with change…and often. Writing a regular status update won’t get you seen by your potential clients or patients. Your goal is to get your posts into the Top News feed as often as possible. Based on a recently updated algorithm (techie word for programming) a little known kept secret according to new research from the Daily Beast http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2010-10-18/the-facebook-news-feed-how-it-works-the-10-biggest-secrets/– here are 5 of 10 smart tips to getting placement in the Top Newsfeed.

1. Placing videos and photos in your status updates will greatly enhance your ranking.

2. Website links within your posting will also help.

3. Pose questions and invite interaction. When you receive a lot of comments – not just “likes” again – higher ranking gets triggered in the algorithms.

4. Facebook pays attention to how connected the people are who are commenting. Meaning, keep adding friends. Strange as it is - some people will never show up as “Top News” simply because they are not well connected and/or interacting.

5. Be an early bird. By posting in the morning - you have the ability to get more comments that will crawl you up the algorithm. Keep in mind, Facebook changes daily and weekly, so who knows what will be the next wave of tips to reach the Top News status. For now - this will help.

Run a survey on your fan page

2010-12-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

Step into the Spotlight Inspiration Lounge

Lead more with your heart and less with your head; it’s the seat of your wisdom and core of your personal brand!

Who has time for ALL that?!

Do I mix my personal friends with business contacts on Facebook?

Glam, Bling, & Social Media Style for 2012!

7 Benefits to Having a Clear, Compelling Personal Brand Positioning You as Client Attractive

Gratitude Giveaway!

5 Smart Tools and Tips for the NEW Facebook

May the Joy Rise Within You. Thanks Oprah!

Entrepreneurs are a rare breed fueling our economy

Why is storytelling so important to your brand

Excerpt from my NEW Personal Branding Business eGuide - this guide a must-have in our "Social Reward" economy ~

Your $47 eGuide investment will change the way you show up and interact on Social Media forever. Begin your new results today. http://tinyurl.com/eGuide2011

In gratitude,

Marlawww.eCreativebiz.com

As a business owner, how do you WIN in our "Social Reward" economy?

# 1 Hidden Fear Stopping Many Smart Entrepreneurs From Using Social Media

I change up the entire game of Facebook when we begin developing your personal brand

The Missing Piece in Your Social Media Marketing System That Dramatically Slows Your List Building!

Who cares what I post on Facebook?

Raising your standards = all the rewards vs. just good results

From Plainsville to Hollywood

A Secret to Success in Social Media is "Be Resourceful!"

What does your brand say about you?

5 "Back to Basics" Facebook TIPS That Will Demystify Your Efforts

5 Straight-up Truths About Facebook & Twitter as Marketing Tools: Be a Savvy Steward of Your Social Media Marketing (Etiquette)

Talk about POWER video marketing! You'll want this service.

Rank higher in Google - the easy way!

It's really not about the money; it almost never is...it's about living a lifestyle

Find Your Tribes on Facebook - Transform Your Life

The Most Powerful Form of Marketing is Testimonials (and Referrals)

The wealth of your brand lies in telling emotionally compelling stories via video

SEO Power - A video is 50 times more likely...

State of the HEART technology via Social Media marketing

Social Media Savvy Tips: Smartphone mobile marketing

"I'm not emotional" Then THIS is for you! You're marketing may be suffering because....

Social Media Savvy Culture Club: High Tech with High Touch To Transform Your Business

The Secret to Living in a Glass House Era: Stepping out of your comfort zone and into the money zone

Lead your Social Media communities with soul and state of heart

Connection. The art of storytelling; it's in your DNA. It's the heart and soul of your brand.

The New Level of Personal Branding. Are you in?

Let's Walk and Run for Life!

Isn't it Time You Stop Hiding and Show Up on Social Media in a Bigger Way?

"There was such an important theme under tonight's class. As we ALLOW ourselves to SHINE our authentic brilliance, we also assist the rest of the "social consciousness" to evolve!!"

Isn't it time you stop hiding and step up to serve others by being the real brilliant you and show up on social media with all the gusto you've got?

How can you do that?

I am only offering 5 of these comp calls.

These are for those who are serious about wanting the one-on-one attention and investing the time and money into your personal and professional growth.

It's for those who are confused, frustrated and tired of not feeling fulfilled by their marketing and how they show up in the world.

It's time to get real. It's time to shine. Allow me to give you my brilliance so you can prosper.

Just reply. Need more proof? Click here to read testimonials at my business fan page.

Then just reply.

Boost your Know, Like, & Trust Factor on Facebook with Fanpagenotifier.com

Secret Code to landing in the TOP of the Newsfeed; Social Media Q & A

Run a survey on your fan page

Marla
www.eCreativebiz.com