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April

Does Size Really Matter?

SMALL BITE OF SUCCESS

The Kennedy Consulting Group Unveils Their New Marketing Campaign Slogan and Presents at President Obama’s Small Business Forum

(Baltimore, MD) Today the Kennedy Consulting Group (KCG) announces its new marketing campaign slogan, ‘Small In Size Big In Service.’  In just two short years, this boutique event management & media relations firm has achieved marked success by creating a client centered, one on one service driven company.  KCG is also known for creating the ‘zone registration’ technique for conferences and events, which allows for smooth, hassle free check-in for attendees.  CEO, April Williams launched the company after spending 14 years in the civic and social service industries.  Kennedy Consulting Group is a one of a kind company for clients looking to break free from the usual hands-off approach typically displayed by larger firms.  Williams describes a guarantee that clients can expect, “Service at a level they have never experienced from any company they have ever worked with.”

This guarantee has recently attracted consulting opportunities from the Maryland Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs.  KCG was tapped to assist in planning a series of one-day conferences for their MBE University program geared toward minority small business owners.  Governor Martin O’Malley, Lt. Governor Anthony Brown and Congressman John Sarbanes attended this event along with other top Maryland Officials.  In 2009 KCG was involved with the ‘People’s Inaugural Gala’ celebrating the inauguration of the 44^th President Barack Obama.  Williams states, “Our government clients keep coming back because were different…were not money driven but service driven.  This is what sets us apart.”   Small businesses like KCG are what continue to fuel the global economy in unpredictable economic conditions.  Williams highlighted this while presenting to the Presidents task force on small businesses this past June at the Department of Commerce.  She will submit official recommendations to the Small Business Administration this summer on improving federal contracting procedures.  

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations. Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We are currently providing event consultation services to Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs. Our boutique firm is woman owned.  For more information visit the website www.kennedyconsulting.net.  For media inquires or to schedule an interview, contact Kennedy Consulting Group, Lauren Smith at Laurens@kennedyconsulting.net. 

The Herd Theory

If there's one thing that this downturned economy should teach us all is that we need one another. Just as animals are protected by the strength and power of the herd, we to should be propelled by a similar energy that ultimately seeks to support all its members.  Instead of an opportunity "feeding" just one company, multiple companies are able to thrive and grow. This process not only builds trust amongst small business owners but also supports long-term partnerships and future business opportunities. Too small to succeed is not a belief of the herd but rather support and guidance for those who could potentially be separated from the group.  In fact one less does not equal more for everyone else but one more translates into greater exposure and overall protection for each member.

Here in the State of Maryland, a group of entrepreneurs   

(displayed in picture on right) got together at the beginning of 2010 and decided that we would form an organization that would support each of its members. There is no cost to join and each person/business is guaranteed equal opportunity to receive protection and support from each member. If you are not currently apart of a group such as this, I urge you to consider the value it can add to you and your business.  

The inspiration for this post came from viewing the video below, 'The Battle at Kruger' one of the most fascinating displays of the power of the herd.                                                                                             

                                  

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations. Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We are currently providing event consultation services to Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs. Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

The Price of Networking

If there were one component that I would say is crucial for small business owners, other than having a good service or product, it's quality networking opportunities. The ability to meet and greet potential new customers is paramount to the survival of any business but especially one in operation for less than five years.  Networking ain't cheap though!  Every month making that difficult choice on which event to attend on a shoe-string budget can at times be grueling. The good thing is, you don't have to attend every event or workshop, only those that have the potential to produce lasting results.  

Here's another good thing, there are many great networking opportunities that are absolutely free.  For example, if you are interested in exploring contracting with the federal government there are free monthly workshops held at the GSA building in DC (www.gsa.gov).  I have been to this one and found it to be a fruitful start, they are also held in other cities as well.  Perhaps you're more interested in doing business with the state.  If you're in Maryland you would visit the Maryland Department of Transportation which is the certifying body for the state (www.mdot.maryland.gov).  Just these two events will help put you in contact with the key players in these areas.  

Still need one more good idea, plan your own networking event! You can find a venue that would be willing to work with you and those attending are responsible for their own drinks and appetizers.  Your primary responsibility will be to market the event and in doing so, you expand your company brand. This exposure is bound to have residual effects which is what every good business needs to have.  Remember that all great networking begins with relationship building and relationships lead to new business.  Here are some helpful tips on working the room from Author Keith Ferrazzi.  Now go out and become a fearless networker!

                                                   

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

The Grammar Vandal

What if the spell check option on your phone or computer stopped working today? Like me you would probably go into panic mode, followed by a frantic search for your dusty dictionary. The truth is we are a country that can not spell!  I admit, when I receive emails from individuals interested in doing business and they are laced with spelling deficiencies, I have the urge to correct them before sending a reply and on occasion I have done just that.  Does it change my perception of that individual and their ability to get the job done and produce top results?  It most certainly does.  Taking that extra few moments to read through a letter or email before sending can mean all the difference in your bottom line and reputation.  

Here are a few tips that may help you avoid a visit from the Grammar Vandal: Create your message and send it to yourself, take your time in composing the message, and request a review from an outside (reputable) source.  One other tip that's crucial is increase the amount of books you read, this too will boost your intellect and vocabulary.  Following these few simple tasks will have you back on the path to good spelling in no time and don't be ashamed to get out those old flash cards.  Here's a little humor from Brian Regan to get you laughing your way back to success.  (I hope there are no grammatical errors in dis...couldn't help myself).

                           

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

Why Constant Contact Sucks!

No question that email marketing is a strategy that many deem an effective way to "get the word out" about the product, event or services they are promoting.  The market has become saturated with companies that say they offer such services but none more visible than Constant Contact.  In fact they have become the "Old Navy" of marketing strategies.  On a daily basis I sometimes receive up to 10 messages from organizations and individuals who are all using Constant Contact.  I won't say how many I actually open but I will say it's typically less than 10%.  

So why does Constant Contact suck if so many people are using it you say? Exactly that...everyone's using it!  They have become the "biker shorts" of marketing, once everyone starts using em' the cool factor has worn off and it's on to something new.  Not to mention their sightly logo dawns itself at the bottom of your well crafted email.  In fact you are paying them to market their company...they should be paying you!  Save your money and personalize your marketing campaign and your return will increase...guaranteed.  Here is a video with a few helpful tips for the savvy marketer.

                                               

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

The Tipsy Planner

Dealing with intoxicated or tipsy guests as an event planner is (depending on the event) included in the job description. Putting safety above all else is key, along with ensuring that their behavior does not detract from your other guests.  Now a tipsy event planner is another story! Without question this is an absolute no no. Clients want to know that they will receive service that exceed their expectations from a professional that will effectively represent their brand. Downing a shot or two of vodka with other guests is not only tacky but is not why the client paid you top dollar.  This is a sure way to gain a reputation as the "tipsy planner" you don't want to hire.  

Not only does it quell repeat business but may also hamper any referrals for future opportunities that you may have received.  Really, is it worth the possible negative repercussions?  Definitely not!  Happy [sober] planning.

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

How To Get "Strings" For Beans

There are three distinct components that render an event a memorable success: great venue, good food and top entertainment. In other words a complete sensory success!  Top entertainment you say? How is that possible with my budget? What if I told you that you could book a chamber orchestra at your event for around $500 or less?  Well you can!  Last year my company was contracted to plan a high profile, swanky event and the client wanted a string quartet but only had "beans" to pay. Assuring them that it would not be a problem I contacted the Department of Music at the University of Maryland in College Park.  Two days later I visited the campus and was blown away by the talent of the students in this particular class.  It didn't hurt that I already knew talented string players and was confident that I could contact them to play at a discounted rate in addition to the students.  

Needless to say the client was pleased and they continue to use the services of this chamber orchestra for their events.  This was in fact a marked success thanks to an active imagination and creative thinking, both of which are absolutely FREE.  As we approach events season I hope that this bit of information will help you in your planning.

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net

Top 5 Event Planning Cost Saving Trends

In any economy saving money is always the smart way to go. Believe it or not you can save even during events season. Here are 5 Event Planning Cost Saving Trends that will help save you time and money:

1. Creativity is Free! When you have less resources to work with using your imagination will result in memorable occasions at a fraction of the cost. 


2. Outsource to Small Businesses. If your company plans less than 5 events per year, contract your overall event management planning to a small business.  Dealing directly with the CEO will save you time and money.  A small business owner is also more likely to know and practice more cost saving techniques than larger event planning firms.

3. Negotiate Everything. From hotel rooms to food and beverages, state your bottom line price and request as many concessions as possible. Be sure to confirm every negotiated aspect in writing. 



4. Book Local Talent. "B" list entertainment can be just as good if not better than "A" list artist. Try bartering with marketing/PR exposure in exchange for services.

5. Treat Suppliers as Partners. Ensure your vendors that you are interested in a long-term business relationship. Also be willing to provide word of mouth marketing in return for their stellar services. 



About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net 

@ Yahoo, Gmail or Hotmail...Oh My!

In today's market to say that competition is stiff would be an understatement.  Your ability to stand out from the crowd is crucial and directly affects your bottom line.  Clients want to do business with individuals who understand how to carefully craft a brand for themselves that will translate into success for them.  Your website, business cards, marketing materials, photos and other image building components should have continuity and without words-be able to tell your story.  

How then do you communicate to potential clients and share that dynamic story?  One way is through networking, a very powerful tool at any stage of business development.  You may have 3 minutes or less to convince them that you are the ONE.  From the moment prior to handing them your business card they are making a decision about you and if they feel you are worth doing business with.  At first glance, they perceived that you were possibly a contender but after looking at your business card they give you that "I'll pass look".  Feeling a little deflated after giving your best pitch, it never crosses your mind that it could be that ridiculous Yahoo extension on your email address. Definitely not, right?  Wrong!  Don't give them any reason to choose your competitor.

Want to be taken seriously as a business owner?  Of course you do!  Get an email address that aligns with the name of your company and its brand.  This is step number one, deciding to skip this will hurt your company's credibility and its ability to build a strong, sustainable network. If you fit in this category it only takes a few moments to legitimize what you're already doing well. As always I wish you continued business success.

About Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC

Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service conference & meeting planning, special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net 

One Tweet At A Time

The social media boom in the last decade has had a tremendous effect on small and micro-businesses. These communication tools have undoubtedly increased revenues for companies that have chosen to integrate social media into their overall communication stratagem.  Not to mention it's all free, so why not!  Though social networking should never take the place of face to face meetings, email, "snail mail" and telephone communications, it can certainly be a welcome addition.  With the creation of such sites as facebook, Twitter and Linkedin, a company can now be in direct contact with its customers on a daily basis.  Used effectively, the marketing budget for a small business can be markedly reduced in a matter of minutes per day.  

Growing a strong, sustainable network starts one post at a time...one tweet at a time and most of all, consistency.  Sporadic tweets or facebook posts can actually do more harm for your company than good.  The image of your business relies on your ability to consistently follow thru with current and potential clients.  If your overall goal is to attract lifelong clients or consumers getting your message out in a reasonable timeframe is key.  Social media allows you the opportunity to increase your response rates and communicate your news in just seconds. This component can mean the difference between a customer choosing to use your services or your competitors who may have built a stronger network that they tap into daily.  Though referrals remain the best way to attract new business, when used in conjunction with social media you can solidify these opportunities.

Integrating social media into your overall communication campaign is essential in todays market, however, business owners must also consider cyber security.  Here are a few tips to get you started: One be smart about the information that you post or Tweet, giving away company secrets happens more often than you may realize.  If in doubt don't send it out!  Two change your passwords often.  Alternating between two passwords will help to prevent hackers from gaining access into your account and potentially damaging your reputation.  Passwords and user id's should also be kept in a protected area on your phone or computer.  Three vet each individual that you add to your network.  Check their websites, google them and ask around.  As always I wish you much business success!

Small Business Spotlight: Twitter

About Kennedy Consulting

Kennedy Consulting, a full-service conference & meeting planning, special event management and media relations firm with 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net 

 

How To Turn Business Cards Into Success

How many times have you gotten home after attending a networking event or conference and found that you've stuffed your pockets with more than 40 business cards?  In the frenzy of the moment you say, "ok I'll send you an email" or "I'll call you to set up a meeting" and at that time you intend to do just that. Fast-forward to one week later and those business cards are stacked neatly on your desk and you still intend to touch base with your new contacts. Turning business cards into success first begins by realizing the potential value that each card (contact) has. Put it like this, for every person that you fail to follow up with you are potentially flushing $100 (or more) down the toilet!  If you are the type of business owner that doesn't mind losing money in this fashion then there is no need for you to read any further but if increasing your bottom line and building your network is important to you...then read on.

The first step in turning business cards into success occurs shortly after you receive it. Write a distinguishing factor about the individual on the card so that you can remember who they are. This is huge!  However, if you have a great memory then doing this at the end of your event will suffice but if you're anything like me completing this within 2 hours of meeting is the way to go. Trust me this works! The second step is to place each business card into like categories.  By placing like cards together you are set up for the third step, which is to input each contact into your database.  This can be as simple as an Excel file with various categories that fit your particular type of business. Maintaining your database with up to date information is essential to growing your business and keeping your potential clients informed of your growth.

Now that you have entered each card into your database it's time for step four. Contact each individual within 1 week of the event and include how you connected with them, when and where so that they remember who you are.  The timing of your follow up is crucial and will determine the viability of your partnership moving forward.  Waiting too late can cause you to miss your window of opportunity.  The fifth step is very simply, follow up and more follow up! Building a professional relationship with a potential client or supporter takes time and patience but your diligence can result in new business and brand expansion.  

Meeting and networking with a potential partner is only the beginning. Putting these five tips into action you will experience an increase in your network and ultimately your bottom line. Following up with a new contact within 1 week not only shows that you are timely but you also value relationship building.  In a time where distractions are a dime-a-dozen your ability to focus and stay the course will be refreshing and can help you stand out in the crowd. Does this take time...of course it does! Building a business only happens by carefully positioning one brick at a time, creating a strong, recession proof network should be considered the cornerstone responsibility of your business. 

Is this doable…you betcha!  In fact some may call this common sense and I would agree.  However, this post-facebook, twitter and myspace era has caused many to abandon the old-fashioned relationship building techniques.  These tried and true tips have worked for many business owners who have come before you and if instituted correctly can work for you too.  By combining social networking with sending correspondence via “snail mail”, such as thank you cards, is a sure way that they will remember you.

Small Business Spotlight: The Kauffman Foundation

About Kennedy Consulting

Kennedy Consulting, a full-service event management and media relations firm with 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. Our boutique firm is woman owned.

www.kennedyconsulting.net 

The First Invoice (Ouch!)

The exhilaration of signing a new client is like no other feeling in the world! Here are the fruits of your hard work paying off right before your very eyes indeed you are on cloud nine and feeling unstoppable.  Now the real work begins.  So you dig in and work like there's no tomorrow, meeting deadlines, knocking presentations out of the park.  You're surprising even your own-self with high productivity and stellar results.  Nothing can go wrong...right?  Well, actually this statement does not exist in the repertoire of a small business owner, so let's try this again.  You have not anticipated that anything will go wrong at this point.  Until the time comes for the first invoice.  

The first time you invoice a client is always like walking on water, though you tell them what to expect the client still expresses shock and awe at the bottom line cost.  Your follow up conversation with them is awkward at best and you are tempted to relent but you stand your ground and 10 days later receive your payment.  It is then that you truly realize that small business ownership is not for lightweights.  You will need to adopt a system that suits your business structure and implement this technique for every client that is interested in doing business with you.  Having multiple systems to suit each individual client will not ensure streamline receipt of timely payment each month.

I will admit, I learned this the hard way as most do who can not afford full-time accountants, but since then have implemented a system that works.  I had to realize that benevolence is always noble but unfortunately a pat on the back accompanied by a big thanks does not pay the bills.  Understanding what you're worth before having that budget conversation with a potential client is key.  Set a minimum contract rate and do not go below that amount.  This new year will bring about a resurgence in our economy which will translate into lucrative opportunities for small business.  Deciding how your finances will flow in and out of your company before you increase your client load will help you navigate what's to come.  Happy New Year from Kennedy Consulting and as always I wish you much business success in 2010 and beyond.

Small Business Resource of the Week: Maryland-Governor's Office Minority Affairs

1+1=3 (part two)

There's no question that starting and maintaining a successful business in any economy is difficult at best. However, with the right business partners the process of building and sustaining can be more conducive for remaining sane.  Since starting this journey in early 2008 I have accumulated more gray hair than I want to admit but this in fact is a small price to pay for the continued reciprocal benefits I enjoy everyday.  Indeed there are no "rock stars" in small business only those who are willing to roll up their sleeves and accomplish what needs to be done every day. Finding even one individual that is willing to work just as hard to build a business that provides only modest immediate rewards is not impossible but takes much time and patience.  However, there are those times when you get it right on the first try like I did.

This week, part two of my interview with Kennedy Consulting's Senior Consultant, Lauren Smith.

April: Last week we talked a little bit about your background and also discussed the journey you took to starting your own company Head Not Tail, Inc. in 2002. Can you talk briefly about what attracted you to Kennedy Consulting?

Lauren: We've known each other for over a decade and I truly respect and appreciate the level of professionalism, enthusiasm, spirituality and organization that April brings to her business.

April: There's no question that you emulate those same qualities and then some this has undoubtedly been one of the biggest reasons for our successful partnership.  So would you say then that strategic partnerships play a pretty significant role in growing a business?

Lauren: I think strategic partnerships are essential to accelerate the growth of any business. This has become apparent to me over the years, in my role as a small business owner, as well as during my time in Corporate America.

April: I find that this is true in my experience as well.  Lauren this interview has been great and hopefully now the readers have a better idea of who you are and what you bring to this company.  As a final question what type of advice would you give to those business owners who are looking to solidify strategic partnerships and how can they sustain them over time?

Lauren: I believe business partnerships are similar to friendships, in that a successful relationship will be based on common interests and goals.  To me, the key to sustaining these relationships is communication.  The communication does not necessarily have to be constant, although in the first stages of the partnership this probably makes more sense.  However, the communication must be open and honest, with the understanding that there are common interest and goals and that each party wants to help the other succeed.

Thank you Lauren and I have no doubts that we will be hearing and seeing more great things from you in the near future.  If you are a small business owner and you're looking for the right partner take your time in the selection process and you just may get it right the first time as I did.  I wish you much business success.

Small Business Resource of the Week: Maryland-Governor's Office Minority Affairs

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1+1=3

There are days as an entrepreneur when you wake up and it takes more than you have individually to push yourself in order to accomplish your set goals for that particular day. One recognizes very early on that not only was Rome not built in a day but it also was not built by just one person.  Sounds like common sense right?  Believe it or not there are some who prefer to take sole credit for an outcome, this euphoria however, is almost always short lived. You begin to realize very quickly the amount of work it will take in order for your company to survive beyond 1 or 2 years.  Everyone has a great idea but having a great idea means absolutely nothing without the ability to execute it in a timely and efficient manner.  This happens only when you recognize that YOU NEED HELP!  I realized this very early on and as a result, Kennedy Consulting has gone farther, faster while maintaining a level of quality and individualized customer service.  In other words, 1+1 no longer = 2 but a whopping 3!  

Today, I introduce my secret weapon-Lauren Smith.  Her stealth skills and ability to just make it happen is this companies greatest addition. Her background in public relations, events management and writing makes her uniquely qualified to meet the needs of our diverse clientele.  Sunday I had a moment to interview Lauren and below is part 1 of a compelling conversation with Kennedy Consulting's Senior Consultant.

April: When did you know that you were Entrepreneurious?  

Lauren: The first time I realized I was Entrepreneurious was when I was a sophomore in high school.  I started selling my crafts to fellow students.  Then, three of us got together to create a business plan for a joint venture, through which we could all sell our creations.  That venture never made it off the ground, but it taught some valuable lessons about working with others, channeling your passions and most importantly, how to tell a "talker" from a "walker." Basically, who is just talking the talk and is not willing to walk the walk?

April: Lauren, I understand that you have continued "channeling your passions" which have culminated in your own consulting business.  For all those who have ambitions to start their own company, talk a little bit about Head Not Tail, Inc.

Lauren: I have been involved in various aspects of many ventures, culminating in the creation of my own consulting corporation, Head Not Tail, Inc., in 2002. The business name comes from Deut. 28:13, which talks about the blessings that come from following God's instruction as laid out in previous chapters, "The LORD will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the LORD your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom." Head Not Tail, Inc. has had the privilege of working projects on behalf of Destiny's Child, Kool & The Gang, Chaka Kahn, Marvin Winans, Jr., Vicki Winans, Mavis Staples, Bishop T.D. Jakes and Donald Lawrence, to name a few.

There's no question that starting a business is a journey that is not meant for those who give up easily but is for those who continue to push forward in spite of and realize that you can go farther, faster with the right business partner(s).  I am fortunate to have just that.  Next week, part 2 of my interview with Lauren Smith, until then I wish you much business success.

Small Business Resource of the week: The Small Business Administration

The Difference A Day Makes

The day was Thursday, October 29th and I had been pushing all week to solidify sponsorship for the entrepreneur and small business owners cruise.  I was calling and emailing everybody and still nothing.  I was bummed and had no motivation and I just wanted to hide under the covers like I did when I was a little kid.  Except I'm not a kid anymore. What was I going to do?  It was pretty much Friday already and I felt like I had nothing to show for the week as it related to this event. Who was going to sponsor an event planned by a small company like Kennedy Consulting.

It's now Friday morning and I'm sitting at my desk starring at my computer screen going over in my head what else I could have done or who else I could have called.  Was it my pitch, was it the time I called...what was it? Then, the phone rang and I didn't recognize the 425 area code; who was this I wondered.  "Hello this is April" I said a bit cautiously and the voice on the other end said, "April this is Mr. X calling from Costco and I'd like to talk with you about your upcoming event."  At that moment my mind went completely blank, so I rattled off a few words before coming to my senses.  After I finished my pitch he said, "sounds like a great event and thanks for giving us such advanced notice, that says a lot about you and your company."  He requested for me to email him the sponsorship materials, so I did and I'm currently waiting for their decision.  

Even if Costco chooses not to sponsor our event next year, I have forever been changed by this experience.  The difference a day makes when you're an entrepreneur is huge! One day you are doing everything you can think of to make something happen and the next day, that which you have been working towards is a reality.  My friend Andrew Morrison who is the small business camp guru, made a statement that really stuck with me, he said "There are people out there who believe in your dreams."  Wow!  I thought, he's right all I have to do is connect with them and the rest will be history.  To my fellow entrepreneurs or those of you who hope to be, keep pushing and I guarantee that the results will amaze you.

Small business resource of the week Facebook.

The Freedom Ride (the 18¢ sequel)

As I walked out of that office in Virginia on my last day my legs felt like jello, I kept hearing Bill Cosby's voice in my head for some reason.  Though everyone was sad to see me go, silently I sensed their relief at my departure.  Relieved that I, the energetic, strategic planning, always good idea having senior consultant would no longer be their competition.  As I headed down that long hallway for the last time, part of me wanted to run back, while the rest of me was excited about all the future possibilities.  Whatever those were.

As I saw that North Star appear out of the horizon, pointing me to freedom, I felt a tune welling up inside me, "oh freedom, oh freedom...oh freedom over me."  There it was in all its glory the Ballston, Virgina Metro stop, with that big "M" on the outside of the elevator.  The orange line would carry me to freedom.  I pressed that elevator button and the voice said "going down",  I thought, uh-oh hopefully that's not literal.  I spent the next hour underground, no light and suffering from severe motion sickness.  This was certainly not the freedom ride I'd envisioned. Finally I hopped off and transferd at the Metro Center to the Red line, well surely, I'd be home free now. Until the very thing that I'd always been afraid of happening-happened.  A very muffled, low-talking operator came over the intercom and rattled off something like the following, "Due to a mysterious package left (unintelligible) on the platform ahead the train will disembark at the Takoma Park Station, again we apologize (unintelligible) delay."  Or something like that.  Great I thought, one stop away from my destination, this freedom ride was turning into a freedom walk.

After finally making it to the Silver Spring Metro Station, I hobbled to my car and began to weep, not cry but weep.  I suppose I was in mourning over leaving my old, very comfortable life to one that was unstable and filled with unexpected twists and turns.  This was in fact my "one last cry" and boy was it a good one.  After sitting in my car for what seemed like an hour, I felt a sense of peace that made me think that this was the right choice and I moved forward and haven't looked back since.  The following Monday I went to Mexico and conceived Kennedy Consulting.  "Si Se Puede"!





Small Business Spotlight of the week is Urban Junction East (John Stoddart).

18 Cents

After walking away from the highest paying job that I've ever had in my 13 year career I had no idea what I was going to do but I knew that at the very least I needed to start walking.  I woke up one morning and decided that I was "sick and tired of being sick and tired."  On top of that my commute was 2 hours each way...that's insane!  So I walked away and my "friends" thought I was crazy but I knew that if I stayed there just for the money then I truly would be crazy.  They all kept saying, "what are you going to do for money" and "are you sure you made the right choice"? At the time I would always say, I have no doubts that I made the right decision until I checked my bank account after pushing to get something started for 3 months.  There it was staring me right in the face, balance 18 ¢.  I thought, well at least I'm not in the red.  

I was in fact broke, actually I was broker than broke but I had hope, determination and faith and that's worth more than silver or gold.  I quickly learned though that a broke entrepreneur is a creative entrepreneur and boy did I get creative.  I also cut back on expenses and ate a few less meals but the quality of my work never diminished.  Now that it's more than a year and a half later not only has that 18¢ grown but so has Kennedy Consulting's list of supporters and cheerleaders.  Yes there are still the nay-sayers and I've gotten use to cold shoulders, snubs and grapevine chatter, all indications that I made the right choice.  If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would absolutely choose the route that I took because it was just what I needed.  Your journey will be different but I guarantee that if you stick with it the outcome will be greater than you could have hoped for. So even if all the signs are pointing to giving up or your friends question your sanity, get rid of them and keep pushing forward.  You can do it!

Small business spotlight of the week is Optimum Capital Management

She works hard for the money

After being embarrassed into upgrading my old Samsung flip phone that I had for 3 years, I decided after much research to purchase the sleek and sexy BlackBerry Curve. Now that I'm on my third one because the first two kept malfunctioning, I find myself wondering how I ever lived without it. That blinking red light has me trained like one of Pavlov's subjects! When I press that trackball to see what it has to offer, my eyes light up and flicker with glee as I read the correspondence.  

I shove out of my mind the thought that I'm addicted, and push forward and within 5 minutes I've responded to potential corporate sponsors from Costco & Dr. Pepper/Snapple Group, and to top it off a technology company seeking the services of Kennedy Consulting.  The ability to respond and execute is the difference between success and failure and failure is not an option!  Don't forget one important aspect though...BALANCE!  This too is a key to success.

My BlackBerry indeed is a hard working woman and definitely deserves to be employee of the year!  Who else would do everything she does without asking for anything in return?  That is if you don't count the monthly bill.  So to all my fellow entrepreneurs, happy texting, tweeting, facebooking, emailing, talking and blogging. May it bring you much business success.

Big Shout out to Black Enterprise the business resource of the week!

Monday Starts On Sunday

For an entrepreneur of today, at least one that wants to be successful, the week sometimes starts on Sunday. So with the football game looming in the background and my favorite burrito from Chipotle in hand, the work begins. I'm tempted to think that I could be out chillin at the National Harbor on what is sure to be the last of some really great weather, but I am quickly brought back to the MAC that is sitting on my lap.
Is this what it takes for my business to succeed? Is this what I really want? Maybe I should just update my resume and start the search for that "perfect" position. Of course that certainly is not the answer, the thought of having to pimp myself out again like that is not at all appealing. After quitting my job more than a year ago to start my company, my friends thought I was crazy and for a minute maybe I was slightly insane. "Who would start a business in this economy", they would say or "Why don't you just accept something for now." I realized then that I would tell my hopes and dreams only to those whom I felt would understand and support my efforts and that ended up being only two people. I had many thoughts along the way of possible failure and humiliation but ever present on my mind was "I think I can...I think I can" and I did.

Here I am more than a year later after becoming a full-time entrepreneur and yes my company Kennedy Consulting is growing and I'm continuing to step out on faith, not that surface faith but the kind that gets in the crevices. Oh and stepping out in class certainly didn't hurt either!

Big shout out to Rushing Media the small business of the week!