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Suggest You - The Story of the Really Silly Farmer (Entrepreneur, Musician, Etc)
Operational strategy in this post is not what most businesspeople would necessarily think. So it will be important that you know what I mean by operational strategy. Operational strategy begins with defining your business in terms of the present opportunity in relation to the customer and product of the business. It then means, creating a development process by which the business will come to operate in such a way that it takes advantage of key leverage points found within operations; these points are found within the abovementioned definitions. In this post, I will simply focus on helping you find those key leverage points because these points are critical to the long-term success of any business.Defining the need is nothing special. This is simply creating a customer profile that is true and accurate. Of course, a startup company may not have all the wonderful information that an established organization may have, but the least one can do is use some common sense, some good market research if necessary, and understand the importance of the need base so that when the business gets going, it can adjust if appropriate.Most of us have already done this. We have an intuitive sense of the needs and the product or service which will fill the need. It’s just important to make sure that you’re senses are correct. This defining the needs and product or service in addition to the key operational aspects of the business lays the groundwork for operational strategy. Since for many entreprene
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and
Applying for a Business visa is a major undertaking especially if you are thinking of relocating your business in Canada. One of the main processes to start the ball rolling is to be able to prove that the funds you have available are not the proceeds of crime. Any applications have to be made from the country of residence of the applicant.People who are experienced in business matters or have sufficient funds for investment could qualify for a Business Visa. They are expected to contribute to the development of the Canadian economy either by investing in or starting a business in Canada. There are three different types of Business Visa Immigrant that can be applied for:1. Investors - this program is aimed at people with at least two years recent business experience and sufficient capital. Investors must have a minimum net worth of CDN $800,000 and make an investment of CDN $400,000 that is used by either the Provinces or Territories to boost the local economy. The C$400,000 investment is administered by the Citizenship and Immigration Canada and is returned to the “investor” after around 5 years. No interest is paid as a zero interest promissory note will be issued to the applicant that is non transferable and has to be presented to the CIC for repayment of the C$400,000.Though not mandatory, it is recommended that a “facilitator” (authorized by the CIC and are normally representatives from one of the national banks) is used to represent the investor with no costs incurred – CIC will
Pat is a regular person, just like you, or I. One day, like many, Pat decides to start a business. Now this would be Pat’s very first business, and Pat did not exactly grow up with a silver spoon in the mouth, if you know what I mean.
Pat decides to tell everyone in town all about the new business soon to be started.
Pat tells friends, family and even other existing farmers to get ready, because this is going to be HUGE.
Pat has come up with an idea that will revolutionize the farming industry and is SURE everyone will want to buy the new produce. Pat is actually bewildered why no one has thought of this or attempted this before as it will make MILLIONS and is yet, so obvious.
Pat has saved as much money as possible, but only is able to come up with a very small amount. The amount Pat has, is a lot less than one would normally expect to pay to start a farm, but that does not stop Pat from being self-confident. Thinking positively, (and being proactive and not letting "negative people" dampen spirits), Pat decides to take all the money available and use as down payment buy a plot of land anyway.
After buying the land, Pat has enough money to buy only one packet of seeds and one shovel from the general store. Mind you Pat is venturing into the Farming Industry for the very first time, so with the exception of outside observance, Pat doesn't have much inside knowlege.
However, Pat DOES have a great idea, and feels that is more than enough, I mean after all, each of the greats like Edison, Einstien, Gates and Bezos all started with just an idea...didn't they?
Pat is ready to start, but is now getting a little concerned. Pat realizes one packet of seed and a shovel is really not enough to get this idea going. Pat does NOT have money to get anything else, but has already invested everything. Plus its a super-cool idea, and it would be a shame to not bring it to fruition, people NEED THIS...ultimately Pat's program could END WORLD HUNGER....if only Pat could get it off the ground.
Pat begins asking people if they want to "invest". Pat finds that there are 2 kinds of people.
The first are people who are NOT investment savvy. They agree Pat has its a great idea but only have a few hundred dollars or so to give...they also bring nothing to the table as far as experience, connections or resources. Pat is rarely asked many questions by these inexperienced "investors", and definitely never any challenging ones. These people are willing to work out any terms that sound reasonable, especially since Pat is "guaranteeing" this is going to be a hit.
These are people just like Pat. They work a day job and think the "idea" is great and "know" it will be the next big thing and want to be a part of it. Unfortunately for Pat, a few hundred dollars will not even begin to touch what Pat knows is needed to launch.
The second type are people in town "with money". These are people who make and keep money, and therefore are pretty savvy about it. Most people (without money) are of the opinion these "rich" folk can "afford to" do certain things with their money, even if its a loss. However, no one realizes the whole REASON they have money and others do not, is because they do not just arbitrarily spend it, even if "they can afford it". They are wise and only spend or "invest" money if its going to bring them more money in the end.They are not in the habit of giving lesser privileged people money, just "because they can".
Pat is a sociable person, so Pat has no problems getting meetings with these rich movers and shakers in town. Pat pitches them on the marvels of the new idea and how its going to make "somebody" a boatload of money. Pat says "if neccessary, I can get you a full business plan by the end of the week."
Ironically, Pat is rarely asked for a fancy business plan and always asked the same questions by the savvy guys:
"How much money do you have available?" Pat replies "well I spent x,xxx on buying the land, a pack of seeds and a shovel and thats all I have"
"What kind of experience do you have in the Farm Industry?" Pat says "None, but I have watched plenty of farmers, and some friends of mine own a farm, so I know how it all works"
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and t
It is not enough that we do our best; sometimes we have to do what is required – Sir Winston Churchill.An MBA helps you acquire the broadest range of people skills and a perfected set of proven management skills in addition to helping you develop your thought processes. An MBA also prepares you for positions of leadership. Simply put, an MBA helps you become a leader with appropriate leadership tool set. Once you get these things under your belt, which is the essence of getting an MBA, the things such as making the “right career move” and “achieving your goals” all fall into their logical place.What Does An MBA Teach You?An MBA helps you by broadening your educational horizons. As an MBA you are looked upon to lead teams and carry out the goals of an organization. MBA’s are routinely called upon to implement tasks that require both strong leadership skills and vision.1. Personality Development: The general aptitude that one has developed during his or her undergraduate studies will need to be translated into management ability. During the course of MBA studies, students learn various aspects of business activities and the intricate nuances involved.2. Leadership Ability: Leadership abilities are not limited to those who born leaders. The characteristics of leadership such as composed nature, analytical abilities, an eye for detail and identifying winning strategies are instilled during the course of MBA. A manager is looked upon as a leader having vision and ability to
After buying the land, Pat has enough money to buy only one packet of seeds and one shovel from the general store. Mind you Pat is venturing into the Farming Industry for the very first time, so with the exception of outside observance, Pat doesn't have much inside knowlege.
However, Pat DOES have a great idea, and feels that is more than enough, I mean after all, each of the greats like Edison, Einstien, Gates and Bezos all started with just an idea...didn't they?
Pat is ready to start, but is now getting a little concerned. Pat realizes one packet of seed and a shovel is really not enough to get this idea going. Pat does NOT have money to get anything else, but has already invested everything. Plus its a super-cool idea, and it would be a shame to not bring it to fruition, people NEED THIS...ultimately Pat's program could END WORLD HUNGER....if only Pat could get it off the ground.
Pat begins asking people if they want to "invest". Pat finds that there are 2 kinds of people.
The first are people who are NOT investment savvy. They agree Pat has its a great idea but only have a few hundred dollars or so to give...they also bring nothing to the table as far as experience, connections or resources. Pat is rarely asked many questions by these inexperienced "investors", and definitely never any challenging ones. These people are willing to work out any terms that sound reasonable, especially since Pat is "guaranteeing" this is going to be a hit.
These are people just like Pat. They work a day job and think the "idea" is great and "know" it will be the next big thing and want to be a part of it. Unfortunately for Pat, a few hundred dollars will not even begin to touch what Pat knows is needed to launch.
The second type are people in town "with money". These are people who make and keep money, and therefore are pretty savvy about it. Most people (without money) are of the opinion these "rich" folk can "afford to" do certain things with their money, even if its a loss. However, no one realizes the whole REASON they have money and others do not, is because they do not just arbitrarily spend it, even if "they can afford it". They are wise and only spend or "invest" money if its going to bring them more money in the end.They are not in the habit of giving lesser privileged people money, just "because they can".
Pat is a sociable person, so Pat has no problems getting meetings with these rich movers and shakers in town. Pat pitches them on the marvels of the new idea and how its going to make "somebody" a boatload of money. Pat says "if neccessary, I can get you a full business plan by the end of the week."
Ironically, Pat is rarely asked for a fancy business plan and always asked the same questions by the savvy guys:
"How much money do you have available?" Pat replies "well I spent x,xxx on buying the land, a pack of seeds and a shovel and thats all I have"
"What kind of experience do you have in the Farm Industry?" Pat says "None, but I have watched plenty of farmers, and some friends of mine own a farm, so I know how it all works"
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and
Strong leaders understand that to successfully lead others they must first be able to successfully lead their own lives. Being the leader of your life takes the following: self-awareness, humility, maturity, self-confidence, and objectivity. It also takes the ability to receive criticism from others and accept that you may not always be right or may not always have the best answer. Most of all there must be an openness to learn and change.Here are seven things you can focus on to lead yourself first:1. Balance external forces with your own internal thoughts – Too often we allow external forces to push us into things even though we may not fully agree with the direction. Your head and your heart are strong internal gages. You can listen to the world around you and then check in with your heart. Your emotion will respond. Check in with your head. Your knowledge will answer.2. Learn new things – Knowledge is power. Take time to read, attend a seminar, or participate in a roundtable.3. Take off the blinders – Heighten awareness around all aspects of your life. Those areas include: family, spirituality/religion, health, recreation, environment, fitness, work/career, money, friends, and personal growth. Most of us only focus on 2-3 areas at a time and lose sight of the rest. Identify what you can do to strengthen those areas that have been outside of your blinders.4. Create an open ear to criticism – Ask for feedback. Be willing to listen with your defenses down.
Pat begins asking people if they want to "invest". Pat finds that there are 2 kinds of people.
The first are people who are NOT investment savvy. They agree Pat has its a great idea but only have a few hundred dollars or so to give...they also bring nothing to the table as far as experience, connections or resources. Pat is rarely asked many questions by these inexperienced "investors", and definitely never any challenging ones. These people are willing to work out any terms that sound reasonable, especially since Pat is "guaranteeing" this is going to be a hit.
These are people just like Pat. They work a day job and think the "idea" is great and "know" it will be the next big thing and want to be a part of it. Unfortunately for Pat, a few hundred dollars will not even begin to touch what Pat knows is needed to launch.
The second type are people in town "with money". These are people who make and keep money, and therefore are pretty savvy about it. Most people (without money) are of the opinion these "rich" folk can "afford to" do certain things with their money, even if its a loss. However, no one realizes the whole REASON they have money and others do not, is because they do not just arbitrarily spend it, even if "they can afford it". They are wise and only spend or "invest" money if its going to bring them more money in the end.They are not in the habit of giving lesser privileged people money, just "because they can".
Pat is a sociable person, so Pat has no problems getting meetings with these rich movers and shakers in town. Pat pitches them on the marvels of the new idea and how its going to make "somebody" a boatload of money. Pat says "if neccessary, I can get you a full business plan by the end of the week."
Ironically, Pat is rarely asked for a fancy business plan and always asked the same questions by the savvy guys:
"How much money do you have available?" Pat replies "well I spent x,xxx on buying the land, a pack of seeds and a shovel and thats all I have"
"What kind of experience do you have in the Farm Industry?" Pat says "None, but I have watched plenty of farmers, and some friends of mine own a farm, so I know how it all works"
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and
As many small-time authors and self-publishers have discovered the hard way, the traditional book publishing model is fraught with problems that conspire against an individual author/publisher making a decent living from their work.The traditional model normally involves two basic choices: 1) use a commercial publisher, or 2) self-publish.THE COMMERCIAL PUBLISHER ROUTEThis option involves the author submitting book proposals or full manuscripts to commercial publishing houses in hope of acceptance.Once a manuscript is accepted by a publishing house (the vast majority are not accepted) a contract is signed between the author and the publishing house. This kicks-off a time- consuming and often complex process involving printers, shippers, wholesalers, distributors, marketers, and finally, booksellers, all managed on the author's behalf by the publishing house.Typically, it takes anywhere from 18 to 24 months from the time the author finishes a book manuscript, until the actual book gets onto the bookshelves.THE SELF-PUBLISHING ROUTEThe self-publishing option is one in which the author eliminates some of the middlemen and manages the overall publishing, distribution and marketing processes him/herself.This option gives the author much more personal control of the whole process and allows him/her to earn more money per copy than through a commercial publisher. It also involves a lot of work by the self-publisher who is responsible for
Pat is a sociable person, so Pat has no problems getting meetings with these rich movers and shakers in town. Pat pitches them on the marvels of the new idea and how its going to make "somebody" a boatload of money. Pat says "if neccessary, I can get you a full business plan by the end of the week."
Ironically, Pat is rarely asked for a fancy business plan and always asked the same questions by the savvy guys:
"How much money do you have available?" Pat replies "well I spent x,xxx on buying the land, a pack of seeds and a shovel and thats all I have"
"What kind of experience do you have in the Farm Industry?" Pat says "None, but I have watched plenty of farmers, and some friends of mine own a farm, so I know how it all works"
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and
The thank you letter for a second interview is a must for serious job seekers. If you’ve made it as far as a second interview, then you are right on the edge and are one of the serious candidates ready to be offered the position. When you’re in that position then it is worth your while to use all of the leverage you have, all of your knowledge of the company and all of your job search skills to close the deal and land yourself a job offer. This letter can be a deal closer.When engaged in a job search, even if it is not your profession, you are really serving as a salesman. The product you are selling is yourself, your skills, and the concept that you can help the company you are applying to. A professional salesman always tries to know his or her product well, and always does better in selling the product when he or she has a genuine belief in the value of the product. As a salesman of YOU this genuine belief in your value to the customer, the potential employer is essential.If you’ve ever watched a sales representative for a radio station calling on customers you’ll notice that certain tools are carried by the sales rep and used time and time again. One sales rep made a fortune selling commercials on major league baseball game broadcasts by walking into businesses carrying a baseball bat as a conversation starter. He’s get the business owner excited about baseball and walk out with a signed contract. He did the same thing with major league football games by walking into a business
"What other businesses have you successfully launched in the past?" Pat answers "This is my first attempt at a business"
"Who else is on your team?" Pat tells "It is just me for now, but if I could just get the money, I can hire whoever is needed"
"What is your exit strategy for the investors?" Pat goes "Huh?"
Pat realizes these are inadequate answers, so then goes back into telling how GOOD the IDEA is, and the fact that Pat will work 24/7 to make this work. It's Pat's Dream, all Pat needs is for someone to believe enough in Pat and to just "give Pat a chance".
Since Pat does not have any relatives or close friends who will fund Pat based on the relationship and wanting to help out, Pat never gets the funding and doesn't understand why. Pat realizes there were not answers to SOME of the questions, but in Pat's mind all the important stuff was already figured out . Even a great idea on how to market it through a joint venture with Wal-Mart!
Pat tries the bank, but they want collateral, which pat has nothing but the farm itself, and that is newly financed.
Pat even goes to work and asks the boss to invest, figuring that would be a sure thing, but no go there either.
Frustrated, Pat gets on the internet and ends up on some forums for small business owners. Pat decides to tell the story and see what kind of advice comes up.
Most of the advice is encouraging words from people saying "GO FOR IT!" & "YOU CAN DO IT!"
Most of the people answering though are also trying to start a business for the first time, and either have not been successful or exaggerate their success. They give a lot of "ideas" and "opinions" but nothing that really helps as they themselves have little experience.
Then a couple of long-time business owners, coaches and/or consultants come on and give Pat the real deal. They do not sugarcoat the issue and give pat some strong advice. Pat doesn't like what is said, but realizes deep down, they are the only ones who care enough to tell the truth.
Pat realizes that if instead of leaping out there, had gotten help from a coach or mentor in the beginning, maybe the business would actually be running right now.
Pat brushes those thoughts off, because they do not matter now. Pat just wants answers on how to get this business going, and will keep looking until the answer is found.
So Pat tells everyone "I am doing this no matter what!"
Pat asks "So what can I do to get this thing going?"
One business owner asks in response: "what is your budget?"
Pat replies..."I don't know, whatever it takes I guess"
Business Owner: "That's not a real answer, ballpark how much you have available"
Pat: "well, I don't know, I don't have one really"
Business Owner: "How much can you come up with"
Pat: "Maybe $100"
Business Owner: "That is not anywhere nearly enough"
Pat: "Well I figure I will just start small, and test it out, and if it works out, I will be happy to put more in. I am going to plant this pack I have and go from there. I obviously have to do this by myself...you all will see - I'm gonna make it!"
Business Owner: "Uhm, ok - well good luck with that"
We all see Pat's dilemma. This was Pat's problem from the begining. Not really understanding the true meaning of "starting small".
Pat does NOT understand the basics of farming, or the universe for that matter.
Pat wants to get before giving, wants to harvest and reap, before planting and sowing.
Pat wants to put one seed in the ground, and somehow get enough back to plant many more.
Pat wants to turn a buck into a million.
Pat is confused and outright ignorant about life.
NOTHING, and I mean ABSOLUTELY NOTHING, gives before putting into it.
Bunny Trail: Sometimes I talk to teenagers, and young girls are crying because they are pregnant at such a young age. "How could this happen??" they say. Well, uhm....a seed was planted, and now a little human is growing inside you.
If you are a female, let me tell you in case no one else has: there is a 100% fool-proof way to avoid getting pregnant and having a child grow in your womb....never allow a seed to be planted.
But I digress back to our topic:
In the same vein, there is a 100% fool-proof way to never get your business or money to grow:
...never plant a seed.
Now there are a lot of variables to this seed planting thing. You may have heard "It takes money to make money". Well that's true to an extent, but its not 100% accurate. Better to say: "It takes resources to make resources." In part 2 I will explain the 3 main resources and how you can use them to reproduce each other.
Here are some things to remember.
RULES FOR GETTING A HARVEST
1) You must plant seeds (sow, invest) before you can get a harvest (reap, return) 2) The measure you use to plant, will determine the measure you get back. Plant a little, get a little. Plant a lot, get a lot. 3) The ground you plant (where you put it) will have a huge impact on your harvest, for good or bad. (Planting a lot in bad ground, brings back little) 4) Before harvest (return), you must cultivate (work, incubate) your seed (investment). Do not expect an immediate return, it takes time. Just keep watering and fertilizing...and wait. 5) You must protect your seed (investment). Weeds, bugs, and rival farmers will harm your crop BEFORE harvest time. 6) Gathering the harvest takes just as much work as planting and cultiv
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