More To Life Than Shoes

OK, so it's not quite the new year, and we're all buzzing with talk of Christmas parties. But surely, fun at work shouldn't just come from getting hammered once a year and indulging in extra-curricular naughties on the photocopier. (Does anyone really do that?)

If the idea of going back to work after Christmas makes you want to do a runner in your reindeer jumper, read on.

If you don’t love what you do, there’s something wrong. Life without passion: it’s a hollow existence. Grey mornings, dull evenings and long boring bits in between – it’s not much fun. Plus, the chances are, if work is dullsville, it’ll impact on the rest of your life. You could become a comfort-eating, telly-watching moaner who’s no fun to be around.

Work is not a prison sentence and if we love our work we’ll be a hell of a lot better at it.

Surely, it would make more sense to work our thing and do something we love, instead of moaning to our friends, moping around and self harming using Dairy Milk.

For some people, passion seems to burn inside them. They’ve always known what they wanted to do with their lives. They have to do as their passion tells them; there’s no other option. It’s a done deal. Well, it’s alright for them, but what about the rest of us? When we were kids we might have passionately wanted to be an astronaut, a professional showjumper, but nowadays that all seems like a lifetime away. Having time and energy to think about our passions is a luxury we can’t afford. We’ve got no clear vision of where we’re going or what we want to do. So how do we go about getting some oomph in our lives?

Here are my top tips for loving what you do:

Passion can be a hard thing to uncover. It can take some people years to work out what’s going to make them leap out of bed in the mornings. But we’re not disheartened - we think the process of finding out what floats your boat is fun. It’s a chance to try new stuff, notice things around us and meet exciting new people. Not a bad way to spend our time, we reckon. One day it’ll hit us, and things will never be the same again.

Get skilled up: So you're good at hoarding old shoes, well, now's the time to gather skills. Bide your time and take the opportunity to learn as many new and useful skills as possible. Go on courses, learn computer programmes or languages, get qualified - by adding to your CV and your braincells, you're getting ready for the right moment to take over the world. You might even find that your employer will pay (just don't tell them you're planning to jump ship!)

Give your job a much needed fun-injection - Find ways of combining the things you love with your job. Start a company magazine, podcast, revamp the canteen, organise work events or outings, plan charity fundraisers etc .

Embrace the side project- you'll be amazed what you can get done during your lunch hour, on the tube and instead of watching TV. We've met some remarkable women (read interviews in our book More To Life Than Shoes: How to Kick-start Your Career and Change Your Life) who've achieved great things whilst working full time - especially Preethi Nair who wrote her bestselling novel on the tube during a long sweaty commute! So, start planning a new business, get started on your blog or do an evening class - embrace the "side hustle."

Get some More To Life Than Shoes action in your life! Get together with girls in your office or in your local area and start a More To Life Than Shoes group to to get your regular fix of new ideas, new friends and new energy and make it happen. Members of MTLTS are bagging their dream jobs, writing books, starting businesses and getting promoted. It's a great way of getting the support, inspiration and encouragement you need to make a change.

Break it down: We’re not saying you need to jack in your job, move country or rent premises, well not right away. Once you know what you want to do, break it into smaller steps, and then just take the first of them. Do some research, apply for courses – these aren’t scary things. Start out small and gradually things will happen. 

It is only November, people, so there's plenty of time to get cracking at this before Christmas is actually upon us and we're lost in a haze of mulled wine and bad knitwear.

Good luck!

As a professional or a businessperson, how do you stand out from the competition and explain to people why they should pick you above your competitors? I hear this question all the time from accountants, management consultants, HR experts, lawyers and coaches, and it applies equally to many other small business owners.

My clients often bemoan the fact that a competitor has a much higher profile than they do, often with much less experience. What are they doing wrong? Usually, they're missing the fact that their competitor has simply found a way to convey their uniqueness to their clients and create a compelling argument for why any client should sign up with them.

How can you get people to pick you?
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to get going:

What’s going on with my current clients?
It can pay to sell yourself as a specialist. For example, if you are a therapist with a large percentage of clients who have depression, perhaps it makes sense to use that as your uniquene selling point (U.S.P) -  that you specialise in working with depression.

If most of your clients are coming to you for a specific reason, even if you could be doing a wider variety of work, perhaps you should be sticking to what you already do well. Someone is sending you a message somewhere!

What do I have that is different from everyone else?
This is a difficult one and you may have to dig deep. But what do clients say about working with you? Do you have qualifications over and above your professional competitors? Celebrity clients? These don’t even have to be the Grazia and OK type of celebrities, even household business names come under celebrity status when it comes to PR. Name drop with impunity! What do you do for your clients beyond the call of duty? Really think about what it is you offer them.

 And if you can’t think of anything...then start doing something. Today.

Work a little differently, give them added extras. Just make a difference.

Is it time to Get Over Myself?
Shyness is acceptable in your first job. But that was then. Most clients would rather work with someone who is confident, unflustered and doesn't go to pieces at the thought of being in the spotlight, So, If you have any qualms about putting yourself forward, get over them.

 You can promote yourself in a way that doesn’t involve putting down others, resorting to bragging or lying or hot air. Be proud about what you have achieved, show people the professionalism you put into your work and the delight you get out of it.

Share success on social media platforms, at networking events, support your clients publicly and even create your own community of loyal clients and customers. You can do this virtually on places like Facebook or in real life by organising events (one of my successful marketing activities has been to organise occasional PR and networking evenings – for free).

How can I turn my competitors into compatriots?
Create a special interest or mastermind group where you can interact with other figures in your industry. Hunt out professional bodies and events when you will find them. Befriend them, create special projects and start working with rather than against them.

Find more PR ideas and advice from Paula at www.doyourownpr.com

Can you learn to be a successful entrepreneur, or do you have to be born with a business brain?

So, you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business. But before you take the plunge, are you thinking of brushing up your business skills with a course or a mentor? According to a new survey conducted by Hiscox Insurance, most female entrepreneurs would tell you there’s no need, and that a business brain is something you’re either born with or not.

82% of the female entrepreneurs questioned didn’t study any kind of business or management subjects at school, and believe their flair for business is an innate talent. Creativity, networking and communication were given as the most important skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur. Even more intriguing, nearly half of those asked claimed that their business finesse couldn’t be learned, and that it was a talent that came naturally to them.

It’s true that many of the inspirational business women we interviewed for our book, More To Life Than Shoes: How to Kick-start Your Career and Change Your Life , never had any formal business education. Nikki King, MD of the massive truck manufacturing company Isuzu, left school, took a secretarial course and then raised three kids – none of which sounds like great preparation for a business career. But when she went back to the workplace years later, her lack of business qualifications didn’t hold her back. In fact, it was the skills she’d learned as a stay-at-home mum that she credits for her successful management technique: “cuddles when down, smacked bottoms when naughty; managing a company isn’t that different,” she told us

But we think that budding entrepreneurs shouldn’t discount the benefits of a bit of preparation and training. Another of our interviewees, Emily Cummins, the young inventor of an award-winning solar-powered fridge, recognizes the importance of a business education, even though her real flair is for invention. She studied for a degree in Business Management, which she says, “has taught me some useful skills, and given me the ability to promote my products.” 

We reckon that although a natural flair for wheeling and dealing is certainly an advantage, potential entrepreneurs shouldn’t be put off by the fear that they don’t have a business brain. Creativity, networking and communication skills can all be improved with tips from those who’ve been there, practice and advice. Whether that practice comes from other work experience, a business course or learning on the fly, don’t be put off by that nagging worry that you’re not a natural entrepreneur – the bit you’re born with is the drive to get out there and do it – the rest will come.

For more amazing business success stories, get More To Life Than Shoes: How to Kick-start Your Career and Change Your Life in paperback, or for your Kindle.

 

 

As a recent female graduate (very recent, I graduated two weeks ago!) I have tentatively begun to look into different career avenues.  I’ve found that other graduates, if not going on to do masters are expecting to work for free in order to gain experience and enhance CVs.  Graduates are attempting to appeal to employers in the face of increasing job competition and enduring economic hardship.

Having considered gaining experience from large corporate firms I have discovered that smaller companies are more enticing to me as a female graduate with potential to develop business startups.  I will gain an insight and overview of how a business works and use this as a route to gaining a broader skills base.  I can apply these skills to my own future startups as a graduate entrepreneur or for future employment.

After a discussion with my parents about my future career as a graduate and the absence of vocational qualities in my degree (BA American and Canadian studies), I have considered the option of business startups as a female entrepreneur rather than embarking on a graduate scheme that would take me into the corporate workplace.

From my perspective as a graduate the overwhelming task of competing against hundreds of fellow graduates for graduate schemes which may or may not lead to permanent employment was not appealing. However, the prospect of engaging in varied work experience with less mainstream companies headed by female entrepreneurs – with the aim to acquire the skills needed to begin any startups – was far more enticing.

Given the opportunity to contribute with some significance to the growth and development of smaller companies and start-ups allocates a sense of worth, albeit not monetary, to female graduates’ efforts and inputs.  The greater variation in day-to-day tasks and the rapidity with which these tasks change certainly keeps you on your toes!  In addition to this the shadowing of female entrepreneurs provides an invaluable lesson for female graduates looking to begin startups.

As a prospective graduate entrepreneur the benefits of startups are far more enticing to me than working for someone else.  These benefits include being your own boss, the stronger sense of dedication to your job, and dictating your own hours (although I have quickly learnt that entrepreneurs work all hours, every day, especially in the early years).   This sense of purpose as the motivating force is especially tempting for graduates when faced with a whole scope of employment in the world of work and no particular direction. 

The possibilities for achievement as a graduate entrepreneur and the sense of satisfaction in reaching your own goals through start-ups make it an attractive prospect.  Instead of doing a job for a large company which may not recognise your achievements or possibility for growth as an employee.

As a female graduate I have therefore decided to gain an understanding of how small startups and entrepreneurial businesses work (especially because I have never studied business at degree level and not even at secondary school).  Seeing first-hand the complexities of startups whilst witnessing the achievements and satisfaction of such an undertaking by other female entrepreneurs inspires me to consider becoming an entrepreneur as a viable option to becoming someone’s employee.  With the large number of graduates entering the work place and the some-what limited graduate places available in large companies, the opportunities that come with graduate entrepreneurship are more enticing.

However, with my large student debt as a graduate, the thought of spending money before making money is unthinkable.  Consequently I would consider becoming employed whilst planning startups as a graduate entrepreneur on the side as a 5pm-9pm job.  Although this may be a more time consuming approach it may be the one best suited to my position as a debt-laden graduate.  My ultimate goal though is to become a successful female entrepreneur.

We’re always being asked for our tip top networking techniques. The trouble is, the idea of business networking gives me the heebie jeebies; all that business card swapping, pointless chitchat and over the shoulder glances to see if there’s someone more interesting in the room. Cringe.

I’ve been to loads of women’s networks and clubs for women. Scoped out many women’s networking events. Worked the room. Talked myself up and generally networked my ass off. On occasion it’s been more exhausting than a full day with a toddler who’s eaten too many ice-creams. Plus, it can feel rather superficial. You come away feeling more judged than a contestant on Britain’s Next Top Model.

When time is so precious, why spend your time juggling awkward moments, canapés, handshakes and glasses of dry white? What is the point of filling your already overfilled diary with business networking events?

Ultimately, networking is just meeting people and talking to them, building relationships and creating opportunities. We do it all the time, with friends, family and work colleagues, and most of us girls are actually pretty good at it! And yet somehow the words “business networking" or “networking event” give us the fear – us included.

Here are my top reasons why networking is a brilliant thing:

 

• You meet new people. Some of whom will come in handy.
• If you talk about your business and big plans, you might even meet potential new clients
• If you’re on the scene people will think about you when they need someone like you
• It’s a great way of sharing ideas and collaborating
• You’ll be more likely to spot exciting new opportunities
• It gets you out the house – not to be underestimated if you work home alone
• It can be fun (really!)

My fear of networking (especially business networking!) was one of the reasons we founded our More To Life Than Shoes women’s network. We wanted to create a club for women dedicated to helping women turn aspiration into action, with members all committed to helping support and encourage each other. And it works.

So, as the founder of a new kind of women’s network, I’d like to share some top tips for getting the most out of networking that will hopefully make it more fun. Hurrah to that.

Experiment. Go to loads of events until you find something that suits you. There are all kinds of networking organizations out there, all doing slightly different things. Find events where you like the vibe. And don’t bother with the ones that scare the pants off you or where people are unfriendly. Obviously, if you’re a woman and you’d like to turn aspiration into action come and join us!  And then, once you’ve found your kinda place, go regularly. It’s easier to build relationships and make friends when people know you.

Chill Out. There’s nothing worse than being sold to from the get go. It’s boring. People will walk off! Instead, take a different approach. Listen to what people have to say and try to think of ways you might be able to help them out.

People love swapping business cards – it’s a big part of business networking in particular so make sure yours are really cool. We love www.moo.com. And bring them with you. Always.

Hunt down key influencers – Time is short, so don’t waste it hiding in the corner chatting to people who don’t know anyone either. Best to get chatting to the people who know everyone! They’ll help connect you with others and recommend you to a wider group of people.

Notches on the bedpost – Meeting people is about making friends, not gathering up loads of new acquaintances and a big bunch of business cards.

Prepare some cool introductions – Instead of the usual what’s your name what do you do thing. You want people to remember you after all.

If you meet someone you get along with, make contact immediately after the event and make an effort stay in touch. You might become friends and they will certainly think of you if an interesting opportunity arises.

Networking is a state of mind – think beyond “networking events” and “business networking” and chat to people when you’re out and about, at the school gates, on the bus or in the gym.

Listen when people are talking – there’s nothing worse that someone who’s biding their time until someone else comes along and clearly not listening to a word you’re saying

Don’t get drunk! A couple of drinks help with dutch courage, but more than that and you’ll probably end up talking crap or spilling your drink on someone!

 
And that's it. Simple. Have a great time networking like a nutter and let us know how you got on.

It started with a random magazine and all kind of discoveries. Then we got physical got sweaty. And last week we all had a go at making that call.

This week, we're after some entrepreneurial inspiration.

One of the reasons we started More To Life Than Shoes was to create an inspiration hub where we could share cool discoveries, helping us fuel our own fire and maybe even inspiring a new business idea.  

I am lucky enough to meet some amazing female entrepreneurs doing all kinds of cool things. For example, the other day I met Genevieve Murphy, co-founder of Trinket Women - a great new way to buy high quality tampons.



Simply sign up, enter your dates and details and receive a neat and stylish present from mother nature's helpers each month. Simple and genius.

I love the fact someone has taken on the big boys and given a much needed feminine touch (not to mention style upgrade) to the most feminine of products. Plus, never again will I get caught short. I'm a real fan of getting letters and packages- just imagine if getting your monthly supply became a joy!

(And if you'd like to try Trinket out, Genevieve has kindly offered us a 2nd box free when we enter code T1005 on www.trinketwomen.com.)

We'd love you to join in this week's mini mission and dig up some of your own entrepreneurial inspiration. 

We wanna hear about amazing business ideas that get you going. If nothing springs to mind, panic not - check out www.trendwatching.com and www.springwise.com. They are both rammed with amazing ideas and concepts - sure to give you as much buzz as a triple espresso.

Wouldn't it be great if we all shared our discoveries - to help each other on the way to success.

Tell us - what's the big idea, why you like it, key things we can learn and give us a link to the website so we can check it out.

And tell your friends about the More To Life Than Shoes mini missions too! Blog, tweet, retweet, text, Facebook, do real talking, whatever floats your boat. Tell everyone!

Nadia x

Still waiting for your big idea to strike before you jack in the day job and start your business? Big mistake ... it's not the idea that's important, it's your drive... 
 
If you ever have the opportunity to see serial-entrepreneur Sara Murray speak, she is likely to champion the view that you do not need a big idea to be an entrepreneur – you just need the drive. Yet many people who speak to me say they are waiting for their big idea before they start their entrepreneurial journey. So, which shoud come first? The idea or the entrepreneurial spirit?

Here are a few businesses that started out by being entrepreneurial before they got their big ideas.

• The founders of Sony started out fixing radios in a bombed-out department store in Tokyo, and their first ‘idea’ was a rice-cooker which didn't really work.
• Nokia started life as a wood pulp company in a tiny town in Finland.
• Apple founders Steve Jobs and Steve ‘Woz’ Wozniak started out together in 1971 selling electronic ‘blue boxes’ that made phone calls for free.
• James Dyson’s first invention was the ‘Ballbarrow’, created long before his iconic vacuum cleaner idea ever existed.
• Nintendo originated from a small Japanese family business that made playing cards.

These entrepreneurs didn't wait around for the perfect big idea. By stepping out and trying one thing, they were best placed to discover something even bigger. Dyson identified the need for cyclone technology in his Ballbarrow factory, and Masaru of Sony discovered a gap in the personal radio market on a chance trip to the USA.

Idea vs. Drive
I believe that your drive will lead to finding your big idea. Whether it is because that entrepreneurial drive is in the blood, as Gu Puds founder James Averdieck describes it, or whether it's what James Dyson calls a “healthydisregard for the status-quo”, there is undoubtedly a mindset that goes with being entrepreneurial. It is a mindset where one is constantly seeking out opportunities, or looking for the problem to solve in peoples’ lives. Find enough people that share that pain and you have a business.

References - How They Started: How 30 Good Ideas Became Great Businesses and How They Started: Global Brands, by David Lester.


By Christina at The Nurture Network: the marketing department for start-ups and entrepreneurs – making expertise and resource available just when it is needed.