Hello Everyone!!!
It's February and this month is mainly represented by the color RED.....signifying "LOVE is in the air." This is the time to have that Valentine's Day Special for your clients. Shampoos and Sets, Hair Color services, Chemical Relaxer services, Haircuts, Manicures, Pedicures, Facials, and more, discount it all, this month! Show your clients some LOVE.....
Some businesses don't ever run a special and clients have been patronizing them for years. This is a major problem for small business owners. But, you have to follow the "Big Boys." Practice the "Law of Duplication." Walmart sends out a sales paper, Pizza Hut has the large $10 dollar pizza, Papa John's has the large $11 pizza with any toppings, Dunkin Doughnuts has "heart-shaped" dougnuts on sale this month, the jewlery stores are promoting specials throughout the month, and YOU, the small business owner are NOT doing anything to show customer appreciation.
And, you're frustrated, wondering why you're business is not as successful as you thought it would be at this time. Remember, your clients want to feel loved and appreciated.....
It is also important to show love to the black people who don't get mentioned or recognized until this month. February is Black History month. But, in my mind, Black History is being made every month, because someone black somewhere is doing something great. And, our youth should be taught about current and historical black people every month.
In the hair industry, we have so many black contributors who are not mentioned in the cosmetology books. People who have made millions, have been philanthropists and helped a lot of people. The most common individual mentioned is Madame C.J. Walker, who was the first black female, self-made millionaire. Many think she invented the pressing comb, but, she invented a salve/oil to be used in conjunction with it.
We have other "greats" in our industry, such as, but not limited to: Mr. S.B. Fuller, Mr. Cornell McBride, Mr. Joe Dudley, Jr., Ms. Annie T. Malone, Mr. Harry Green, and more. Personally, Madame C.J. Walker's story is very inspirational, as Mr. S.B. Fuller and Ms. Annie Malone's. For the "greats" who are still alive, I try to "pick their brains" everytime I see them at a show or event.
Trust me, they have more information than any textbook about achieving success, selling, recruiting, branding, marketing, etc.
Another mistake many people make, they don't want to ask for help or advice. Especially from a person who has done what they are doing now. If the person was successful at it, you need to ask alot of questions. You can make the new job or position your own, but, if this person is willing to share knowledge and tips to make it easier and better for you, get rid of your pride.
I have been very fortunate in my life and career, because I have intentionally surrounded myself with people who are more intelligent.
A lesson I learned from Mr. Dudley. He said, "Toni, if you're the smartest person in your business or organization, you have a problem. You have to surround yourself with people to help you think, make suggestions, take initiative, be creative, etc. You can't surround yourself with a bunch of laborers. You need people who can handle things when you're not there."
He has given me so much great advice, as well as Mr. McBride, Mr. Green, and others. My point is, they showed me a lot of LOVE. They wanted me to do well and they shared the information.
On a personal note, I have experienced love from my parents, when I was younger, my dad gave me a box of chocolates for Valentine's Day until he died, both parents showered me with lots of hugs and kisses, my siblings showed me love, as well as my extended family, my clients, my employees, co-workers, and the special people reading this today. (wink):-)
I have been blessed to experience love in my life....to know what it feels like to be happy, in love and smiling with my eyes, when I look at a person. Love is BEAUTIFUL!!!
Create a Better Day!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions" (sold everywhere)
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology 2
Twitter: @Cosmogirl205
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Understanding Your "Brand".......
Happy New Year Everyone!!!
I hope this is a better year. And, as you grow in your business, you will make new decisions, target new markets, create new environments, etc. The new decisions can be made as to "how" you conduct your business. The things you will change or modify to increase your business.
Targeting new markets is always fun and interesting, as you learn "why" you need to do it and "how" will you do it. Each year should bring a change. If you are not accepting debit and credit cards in your business, this may be the year to do it. If you are extending credit to clients and they are not appreciative enough to pay you, this may be the year to stop it. These are the decisions you may need to make in regards to "how" you continue to conduct business.
I heard a speaker say, "there is pain in change," some people are afraid of the unknown, so they continue in a way, in which, they are comfortable. Even if it's NOT lucrative and/or productive.
Many people in business DO NOT understand "branding." In order to have a successful business, you have to understand your brand. For example: Toni Love is a brand. Most people know the Toni Love brand for Cosmetology, Education, and Weaving. Your brand should be real, authentic, consistent, and ever-evolving as time goes on.
For example: the Toni Love brand started as a licensed cosmetologist, who developed a large clientele while working behind the chair. Then, a licensed cosmetology instructor, a platform artist, a published author, a International Educator, a school owner, a supplier of educational dvds, and now a product owner. (see http://www.tonilove.com/) All of these areas of interest evolved from being a licensed cosmetologist.
Also, I have always identified "my nucleus/my core" and stayed true to it. Many people want to do so many things and they become known for several things or never become known for anything of significance. For example: When you think Oprah, you think "Talk Show Host," Martha Stewart is known for being "Crafty," Richard Simmons is known for exercise and he ALWAYS looks like his brand. Everytime you see him, he's usually wearing the stripped shorts or some type of exercise attire.
When people see you, your brand should be represented; be it business, sexy, contemporary, etc. To build your brand faster and consistently, you must have exposure! Today, because of social media websites and other avenues, it is very easy to get some exposure. But, of course to get major exposure, you will have to spend some money. But, again, it depends on your brand and what you have to offer the market.
So, starting this month, take time to do some "soul searching"......identify what you like to do, identify the market that could benefit from your services, ask yourself, are you really targeting the right market? And, if you are thinking about expanding your market or changing, ask yourself, "why?"
Remember, EVERYONE is a brand, now ask yourself, "WHAT ARE YOU REPRESENTING?"
Create a Better Year!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions" (now sold @ Walmart.com)
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
FBook: Toni Love Cosmetology
http://www.tonilove.com/
I hope this is a better year. And, as you grow in your business, you will make new decisions, target new markets, create new environments, etc. The new decisions can be made as to "how" you conduct your business. The things you will change or modify to increase your business.
Targeting new markets is always fun and interesting, as you learn "why" you need to do it and "how" will you do it. Each year should bring a change. If you are not accepting debit and credit cards in your business, this may be the year to do it. If you are extending credit to clients and they are not appreciative enough to pay you, this may be the year to stop it. These are the decisions you may need to make in regards to "how" you continue to conduct business.
I heard a speaker say, "there is pain in change," some people are afraid of the unknown, so they continue in a way, in which, they are comfortable. Even if it's NOT lucrative and/or productive.
Many people in business DO NOT understand "branding." In order to have a successful business, you have to understand your brand. For example: Toni Love is a brand. Most people know the Toni Love brand for Cosmetology, Education, and Weaving. Your brand should be real, authentic, consistent, and ever-evolving as time goes on.
For example: the Toni Love brand started as a licensed cosmetologist, who developed a large clientele while working behind the chair. Then, a licensed cosmetology instructor, a platform artist, a published author, a International Educator, a school owner, a supplier of educational dvds, and now a product owner. (see http://www.tonilove.com/) All of these areas of interest evolved from being a licensed cosmetologist.
Also, I have always identified "my nucleus/my core" and stayed true to it. Many people want to do so many things and they become known for several things or never become known for anything of significance. For example: When you think Oprah, you think "Talk Show Host," Martha Stewart is known for being "Crafty," Richard Simmons is known for exercise and he ALWAYS looks like his brand. Everytime you see him, he's usually wearing the stripped shorts or some type of exercise attire.
When people see you, your brand should be represented; be it business, sexy, contemporary, etc. To build your brand faster and consistently, you must have exposure! Today, because of social media websites and other avenues, it is very easy to get some exposure. But, of course to get major exposure, you will have to spend some money. But, again, it depends on your brand and what you have to offer the market.
So, starting this month, take time to do some "soul searching"......identify what you like to do, identify the market that could benefit from your services, ask yourself, are you really targeting the right market? And, if you are thinking about expanding your market or changing, ask yourself, "why?"
Remember, EVERYONE is a brand, now ask yourself, "WHAT ARE YOU REPRESENTING?"
Create a Better Year!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions" (now sold @ Walmart.com)
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
FBook: Toni Love Cosmetology
http://www.tonilove.com/
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Men Grooming Products for the Holidays
Hello Everyone!!!!
As we enter the holiday season, it's time to start shopping for gifts for loved ones. This time of year is filled with anticipation, dropping hints, and loads of expectations. In many cases, it seems as if women are easier to shop for than men.
It's simple, women love cash, jewlery, gift cards to favorite retailers, nice vehicles, accessories, etc. When shopping for men, women ponder.....Does he play golf?, Is he a sports fan?, Does he wear jewlery?, Is he a hunter?, etc. It becomes somewhat of a difficult task to shop for men.
So, I want to offer a few solutions to assist with your shopping this year. Most men have great grooming habits and to assist them this year, I want to suggest a few items I'm sure the men in your life would greatly appreciate. The Phillips Norelco Shaving and Grooming products are a "must have" for men this year!!!!
So, ladies, as you shop, be sure to search online and in the stores for the following products:
The Sensotouch 3D Shaver: this product can be used wet with foam or dry without for a great shave. It's cordless, fully washable, has a shaving head with 3 specialized tracks, coutours to every curve in the face, includes a cleaning brush, a protection cap, a 2 year warranty, and so much more!!!
The Vacuum Stubble and Beard Trimmer Pro: this product is the ONLY stubble trimmer with a vacuum system. The vacuum system captures the hair as it's being cut. It includes a lithium ion quick charge, a turbo power boost button for cutting and fan speed, it provides corded and cordless use, a travel lock to prevent unintentionally switching on, and so much more!!!
The Do-It-Yourself Clipper: this product is great for men who like to cut their own hair. It's perfect for hard to reach areas, it includes 180 degrees rotating heads, 20 secured length settings, it's washable, provides corded and cordless use, holds a charge for an hour, and after removing the guards, there is a precision trimmer underneath, and so much more!!!!
And, ladies, if you cut you honey's hair or the children, the usage of this clipper is very simple!
So, as your are "pondering" over what to get the men in your life, just think of the sparkle in their eyes and the smile on their faces, as they open their gift and see one of these great products!! I'm sure you will feel proud knowing they received a gift they will use and appreciate this Christmas.
For more information on the Phillips Norelco Products, be sure to visit: www.phillips.com.
Have a great holiday season!!!!
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love
www.tonilove.com
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
(sold on Walmart.com, Amazon.com, and all major bookstores)
770-704-7653
As we enter the holiday season, it's time to start shopping for gifts for loved ones. This time of year is filled with anticipation, dropping hints, and loads of expectations. In many cases, it seems as if women are easier to shop for than men.
It's simple, women love cash, jewlery, gift cards to favorite retailers, nice vehicles, accessories, etc. When shopping for men, women ponder.....Does he play golf?, Is he a sports fan?, Does he wear jewlery?, Is he a hunter?, etc. It becomes somewhat of a difficult task to shop for men.
So, I want to offer a few solutions to assist with your shopping this year. Most men have great grooming habits and to assist them this year, I want to suggest a few items I'm sure the men in your life would greatly appreciate. The Phillips Norelco Shaving and Grooming products are a "must have" for men this year!!!!
So, ladies, as you shop, be sure to search online and in the stores for the following products:
The Sensotouch 3D Shaver: this product can be used wet with foam or dry without for a great shave. It's cordless, fully washable, has a shaving head with 3 specialized tracks, coutours to every curve in the face, includes a cleaning brush, a protection cap, a 2 year warranty, and so much more!!!
The Vacuum Stubble and Beard Trimmer Pro: this product is the ONLY stubble trimmer with a vacuum system. The vacuum system captures the hair as it's being cut. It includes a lithium ion quick charge, a turbo power boost button for cutting and fan speed, it provides corded and cordless use, a travel lock to prevent unintentionally switching on, and so much more!!!
The Do-It-Yourself Clipper: this product is great for men who like to cut their own hair. It's perfect for hard to reach areas, it includes 180 degrees rotating heads, 20 secured length settings, it's washable, provides corded and cordless use, holds a charge for an hour, and after removing the guards, there is a precision trimmer underneath, and so much more!!!!
And, ladies, if you cut you honey's hair or the children, the usage of this clipper is very simple!
So, as your are "pondering" over what to get the men in your life, just think of the sparkle in their eyes and the smile on their faces, as they open their gift and see one of these great products!! I'm sure you will feel proud knowing they received a gift they will use and appreciate this Christmas.
For more information on the Phillips Norelco Products, be sure to visit: www.phillips.com.
Have a great holiday season!!!!
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love
www.tonilove.com
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
(sold on Walmart.com, Amazon.com, and all major bookstores)
770-704-7653
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
The Cosmetology/Barbering Industry Booming During the Recession
Hello Everyone!!!!
According to a recent report on CNN.com (10-15-11 hair-salons-economy), hair salons are thriving during these tough economic times. Many stylists from across the United States contact me in a panic, seeking advice about salvaging their struggling business. As always, I tell them, the key to success is through Continuing Education. This article was so interesting, one salon in Maryland had nine hairstylists and seven of them hold college degrees!!!
A few had been laid off from their corporate jobs and others saw an opportunity in the hair industry and quit their corporate jobs. There has been an 18% increase in the overall salon business during these tough economic times. I don't know about you, but, I found this information "empowering", because if you're feeling like your business is slow and you're feeling defeated and discouraged, it's time to get up and get moving.
As I mentioned, some of these people are NEW to the industry. So, if you are a "veteran", it's time to get up and get busy! If you are a Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Specialist, it's time to take some classes and seek new services to offer in your business. If you haven't been to a conference, it's time to attend one.
If you are reading this and you are not performing hair loss services in your business, this is the time to add them to your "hair menu." This is the time to take classes, get certified in new specialties, so you can be ready for the new year. "Get CERTIFIED in 2011 and get PAID in 2012" should be your new motto.
If the sylists in Maryland and other states are booming during these tough times, why aren't you? Before the end of the year, it's time to hold a staff meeting; ask your stylists for suggestions, delegate, let them lead with their ideas, do a better job with marketing, hit the streets on a day off and pass out flyers as a group, (teamwork makes the dream work!) and end this year feeling great and not defeated.
One of the ladies interviewed in the CNN story said, before she stopped getting her hair done, she would give up buying shoes! The clients are out there, YOU have to go out and bring them into your business!!!!
*To read the article and watch the video clip, friend me on Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology and the story is posted on my wall*
Create a Better Day!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
www.tonilove.com
770-704-7653
According to a recent report on CNN.com (10-15-11 hair-salons-economy), hair salons are thriving during these tough economic times. Many stylists from across the United States contact me in a panic, seeking advice about salvaging their struggling business. As always, I tell them, the key to success is through Continuing Education. This article was so interesting, one salon in Maryland had nine hairstylists and seven of them hold college degrees!!!
A few had been laid off from their corporate jobs and others saw an opportunity in the hair industry and quit their corporate jobs. There has been an 18% increase in the overall salon business during these tough economic times. I don't know about you, but, I found this information "empowering", because if you're feeling like your business is slow and you're feeling defeated and discouraged, it's time to get up and get moving.
As I mentioned, some of these people are NEW to the industry. So, if you are a "veteran", it's time to get up and get busy! If you are a Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Specialist, it's time to take some classes and seek new services to offer in your business. If you haven't been to a conference, it's time to attend one.
If you are reading this and you are not performing hair loss services in your business, this is the time to add them to your "hair menu." This is the time to take classes, get certified in new specialties, so you can be ready for the new year. "Get CERTIFIED in 2011 and get PAID in 2012" should be your new motto.
If the sylists in Maryland and other states are booming during these tough times, why aren't you? Before the end of the year, it's time to hold a staff meeting; ask your stylists for suggestions, delegate, let them lead with their ideas, do a better job with marketing, hit the streets on a day off and pass out flyers as a group, (teamwork makes the dream work!) and end this year feeling great and not defeated.
One of the ladies interviewed in the CNN story said, before she stopped getting her hair done, she would give up buying shoes! The clients are out there, YOU have to go out and bring them into your business!!!!
*To read the article and watch the video clip, friend me on Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology and the story is posted on my wall*
Create a Better Day!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
www.tonilove.com
770-704-7653
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Fall Is Almost Here!!!
Hello Everyone!!!
The Fall season is almost here and it's time to get those sweaters out of storage. Also, it's time to get the fall decorations out of storage and make a few changes in the business. During the year, it's a good idea to give your clients something new and fresh.
They visit your business week after week, month after month, and year after year; only to see the same dull-colored walls, or the same flower sitting in the corner collecting dust. If you haven't made any changes in a while, start now, by taking "baby steps".
Make a decision to paint one wall or take one room to get started with the process. For example, I always changed the bathroom in my business. The clients loved it and some would come in and go directly to the bathroom to see if anything changed since they were there last. Anyone can appreciate a clean, well-fragranced, beautifully decorated bathroom in a business or a home.
In some businesses, it's one of the rooms that get the least attention. I would decorate it for all seasons and holidays. I would paint the walls a different color or even paint one wall to give it a little "flavor". My staff and I arranged other decorative items in there to give it the appeal we were seeking. The children would say, "ooo and ah" and even the male clients would comment on it. When clients feel you take pride in your business, they will respect, appreciate, and recruit for it. Your room of choice may not be the bathroom, it may be your waiting area, it doesn't matter, just start making a few changes.
The Fall season is another time to introduce new hairstyles to clients. If the client is wearing a "system/unit", this may be the time to start speaking to him or her about a new one. Make a suggestion to try another texture of hair or maybe, a new color. For the clients, who are not wearing a system/unit, this is the time to suggest a new cut or color.
Many clients like to go lighter in the summer and tone down during the fall and winter seasons. These suggestions are methods to increase your revenue. Any time clients add new services or order new systems/units, it means more profits for your business.
The time is NOW!!! Why are you waiting? Get in the spirit!!!
The changes you make in your business will possibly make your clients feel better as they walk in the door. Or, the changes will possibly make you feel better about your business and other opportunities awaiting you!!!
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love
www.tonilove.com
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
The Fall season is almost here and it's time to get those sweaters out of storage. Also, it's time to get the fall decorations out of storage and make a few changes in the business. During the year, it's a good idea to give your clients something new and fresh.
They visit your business week after week, month after month, and year after year; only to see the same dull-colored walls, or the same flower sitting in the corner collecting dust. If you haven't made any changes in a while, start now, by taking "baby steps".
Make a decision to paint one wall or take one room to get started with the process. For example, I always changed the bathroom in my business. The clients loved it and some would come in and go directly to the bathroom to see if anything changed since they were there last. Anyone can appreciate a clean, well-fragranced, beautifully decorated bathroom in a business or a home.
In some businesses, it's one of the rooms that get the least attention. I would decorate it for all seasons and holidays. I would paint the walls a different color or even paint one wall to give it a little "flavor". My staff and I arranged other decorative items in there to give it the appeal we were seeking. The children would say, "ooo and ah" and even the male clients would comment on it. When clients feel you take pride in your business, they will respect, appreciate, and recruit for it. Your room of choice may not be the bathroom, it may be your waiting area, it doesn't matter, just start making a few changes.
The Fall season is another time to introduce new hairstyles to clients. If the client is wearing a "system/unit", this may be the time to start speaking to him or her about a new one. Make a suggestion to try another texture of hair or maybe, a new color. For the clients, who are not wearing a system/unit, this is the time to suggest a new cut or color.
Many clients like to go lighter in the summer and tone down during the fall and winter seasons. These suggestions are methods to increase your revenue. Any time clients add new services or order new systems/units, it means more profits for your business.
The time is NOW!!! Why are you waiting? Get in the spirit!!!
The changes you make in your business will possibly make your clients feel better as they walk in the door. Or, the changes will possibly make you feel better about your business and other opportunities awaiting you!!!
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love
www.tonilove.com
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
New Beginnings
Hello Everyone!!!!
Recently, I met a man named John. I find John very intelligent, interesting, intriquing, and witty. I have observed him over the past few weeks and have learned a great deal. John is at a point in his life, he's ready for change and speaking to him, I like his approach to his decision making. He shared with me, "I can't make decisions on emotions." "I have to wait to see how I'm feeling in a few months and be sure my career stays in tact."
He acknowledges the change is needed and he wants to be happy. He shared, the life-changing decision will be the best move for him, but, he wants to be sure. John is taking time to look at all aspects of his life.
In life, as we grow, change is needed to reach a new level. Whether it's a level of happiness in our personal life or a level of success in our professional life. At some point, we have to make a decision. When I moved to Atlanta, in the "natural", it didn't make sense. I had all the things I needed in Alabama and everything was paid in full.
But, if we don't challenge ourselves and take risks, we become complacent and stop growing. Some of my friends and family couldn't see it and it didn't make sense to them, but, I saw it. The move was for me and it made me happy. Personal and professional decisions are not always supported by friends and family. Sometimes, these people are not happy in their own lives or can't move and want to hold you back. Sometimes, it's jealousy and selfishness, and not always with a malicious intent. But, because they will miss being around you.
In business, sometimes we have to change our location to attract our "target market". And, sometimes our clients will get upset, because the new location is not as convenient for them to patronize you. Or, they will miss you being in their community and the services rendered.
Change is good. Life is too short to be unhappy, lonely, and living with regrets. Also, I have learned, some opportuinites don't come a second or third time, and you have to take advantage of them when they arise. When my opportunity arose to move to Atlanta, I didn't hesitate, I knew I had to do it and it was the best move for me.
Some people are not like John, they don't take time to think about all aspects of things and the consequences involved with their decision. Some people make hasty decisions and harbor regret and resentment. As you go forward in your business and personal life, take a piece of paper and write down the "pros and cons" of your decision. If the "pros" heavily outweigh the "cons", ask your higher power for guidance, devise your "exit" plan, make your move and don't look back.
Maybe, you're in line for a blessing, trust God, and step out on faith.......Is it time for your new beginning?
Until next time......Create a Better Day!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
http://www.tonilove.com/
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
Recently, I met a man named John. I find John very intelligent, interesting, intriquing, and witty. I have observed him over the past few weeks and have learned a great deal. John is at a point in his life, he's ready for change and speaking to him, I like his approach to his decision making. He shared with me, "I can't make decisions on emotions." "I have to wait to see how I'm feeling in a few months and be sure my career stays in tact."
He acknowledges the change is needed and he wants to be happy. He shared, the life-changing decision will be the best move for him, but, he wants to be sure. John is taking time to look at all aspects of his life.
In life, as we grow, change is needed to reach a new level. Whether it's a level of happiness in our personal life or a level of success in our professional life. At some point, we have to make a decision. When I moved to Atlanta, in the "natural", it didn't make sense. I had all the things I needed in Alabama and everything was paid in full.
But, if we don't challenge ourselves and take risks, we become complacent and stop growing. Some of my friends and family couldn't see it and it didn't make sense to them, but, I saw it. The move was for me and it made me happy. Personal and professional decisions are not always supported by friends and family. Sometimes, these people are not happy in their own lives or can't move and want to hold you back. Sometimes, it's jealousy and selfishness, and not always with a malicious intent. But, because they will miss being around you.
In business, sometimes we have to change our location to attract our "target market". And, sometimes our clients will get upset, because the new location is not as convenient for them to patronize you. Or, they will miss you being in their community and the services rendered.
Change is good. Life is too short to be unhappy, lonely, and living with regrets. Also, I have learned, some opportuinites don't come a second or third time, and you have to take advantage of them when they arise. When my opportunity arose to move to Atlanta, I didn't hesitate, I knew I had to do it and it was the best move for me.
Some people are not like John, they don't take time to think about all aspects of things and the consequences involved with their decision. Some people make hasty decisions and harbor regret and resentment. As you go forward in your business and personal life, take a piece of paper and write down the "pros and cons" of your decision. If the "pros" heavily outweigh the "cons", ask your higher power for guidance, devise your "exit" plan, make your move and don't look back.
Maybe, you're in line for a blessing, trust God, and step out on faith.......Is it time for your new beginning?
Until next time......Create a Better Day!!!
Toni Love
Author: "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions"
http://www.tonilove.com/
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
Monday, July 11, 2011
Leadership Isn't Easy!!!!!
Hello Everyone!!!
As many of you know, I've been self-employed over the last nine (9) years, and believe me, it's a constant learning experience. I heard someone say, "Where there are people, there are problems and where there are problems, there are people."Therefore, having an understanding of people will help you. Most effective leaders, don't make decisions on emotions. Follow the news, those who do, get in trouble......
Most effective leaders have what I like to call, a "Master Mind Group." (At least, this is what I call my group.) All of these people are much smarter than me. They have experienced some of the things and/or similar things I am going through, as I grow and develop. They offer a wealth of knowledge and don't tell me what I WANT to hear, but, what I need to hear about the topics of discussion. These people are very successful and have obtained millions and billions of dollars, being in leadership positions. They challenge me.......
If you are the smartest person in your salon, on your staff, at your plant (in your position), in your barbershop, at your carwash, mechanic shop, law enforcement office, etc.; and you're the leader or the person in charge, your business or organization is in trouble.
In leadership, you can't be afraid to ASK FOR HELP!!! Let go of your pride, stop being embarrassed, stop losing money, and stop pretending all is great. But, before asking for help, be sure to have a clear vision of what you are trying to accomplish and be sure you can articulate it to people. They need to "see it" and/or understand the concept BEFORE they give advice or invest their money. People don't want to waste money or time.
Deshaun Bullard of Nouritress Products and I have seen each other over the years at hair shows. Today, she has her products in J.C. Penney and is in negotiations with Target. As a positive leader in our industry, she has given me a wealth of information to use as I launch the Toni Love's Hair Cleansing System. She gave me information pertaining to marketing and positioning the products, as well as how to get the products overseas. Her products are in Africa and England too. A leader reaches back and helps others.
As a leader, you have to be prepared to face criticism, scrutiny, jealousy, as well as competition within your own organization and/or business. Many people who work alongside you, don't really like you and will leave you, only to compete with you, feeling they can do it better......And, the good leader controls his/her emotions, stays focused, and keeps it moving........
I love hearing stories of great leaders and business people: Jack Welch, John H. Johnson, S.B. Fuller, Daymond John, Frank Caciatto, Mary Kay, Stan Pate, Madame C.J. Walker and many more. They had humble beginnings, whether it was asking friends and family for support and/or money, or having enough courage to ask a stranger to believe in their vision and help.
Leadership is powerful and somewhat of an obligation. You have the opportunity to impact many lives. Therefore, be true to yourself, don't compromise your integrity, follow the rules, and don't worry about who doesn't like you. As a leader, when you walk into the office, plant, salon, shop, etc., and everyone stops talking, go in your office and smile, because you have earned their respect!:-)
Until Next Time.....
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love, author "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions" (sold online and in bookstores)
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
As many of you know, I've been self-employed over the last nine (9) years, and believe me, it's a constant learning experience. I heard someone say, "Where there are people, there are problems and where there are problems, there are people."Therefore, having an understanding of people will help you. Most effective leaders, don't make decisions on emotions. Follow the news, those who do, get in trouble......
Most effective leaders have what I like to call, a "Master Mind Group." (At least, this is what I call my group.) All of these people are much smarter than me. They have experienced some of the things and/or similar things I am going through, as I grow and develop. They offer a wealth of knowledge and don't tell me what I WANT to hear, but, what I need to hear about the topics of discussion. These people are very successful and have obtained millions and billions of dollars, being in leadership positions. They challenge me.......
If you are the smartest person in your salon, on your staff, at your plant (in your position), in your barbershop, at your carwash, mechanic shop, law enforcement office, etc.; and you're the leader or the person in charge, your business or organization is in trouble.
In leadership, you can't be afraid to ASK FOR HELP!!! Let go of your pride, stop being embarrassed, stop losing money, and stop pretending all is great. But, before asking for help, be sure to have a clear vision of what you are trying to accomplish and be sure you can articulate it to people. They need to "see it" and/or understand the concept BEFORE they give advice or invest their money. People don't want to waste money or time.
Deshaun Bullard of Nouritress Products and I have seen each other over the years at hair shows. Today, she has her products in J.C. Penney and is in negotiations with Target. As a positive leader in our industry, she has given me a wealth of information to use as I launch the Toni Love's Hair Cleansing System. She gave me information pertaining to marketing and positioning the products, as well as how to get the products overseas. Her products are in Africa and England too. A leader reaches back and helps others.
As a leader, you have to be prepared to face criticism, scrutiny, jealousy, as well as competition within your own organization and/or business. Many people who work alongside you, don't really like you and will leave you, only to compete with you, feeling they can do it better......And, the good leader controls his/her emotions, stays focused, and keeps it moving........
I love hearing stories of great leaders and business people: Jack Welch, John H. Johnson, S.B. Fuller, Daymond John, Frank Caciatto, Mary Kay, Stan Pate, Madame C.J. Walker and many more. They had humble beginnings, whether it was asking friends and family for support and/or money, or having enough courage to ask a stranger to believe in their vision and help.
Leadership is powerful and somewhat of an obligation. You have the opportunity to impact many lives. Therefore, be true to yourself, don't compromise your integrity, follow the rules, and don't worry about who doesn't like you. As a leader, when you walk into the office, plant, salon, shop, etc., and everyone stops talking, go in your office and smile, because you have earned their respect!:-)
Until Next Time.....
Create a Better Day!
Toni Love, author "The World of Wigs, Weaves, and Extensions" (sold online and in bookstores)
Facebook: Toni Love Cosmetology
Twitter: @cosmogirl205
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