ABWA Express Network
      Scottsdale Express Network Newsletter
February 2009
In This Issue
GREETINGS!
NEXT MEETING
FUTURE PROGRAMS
ABWA'S PROUD CODE OF CONDUCT
MINDING YOUR BUSINESS
NETWORKING EVENTS
MEET THE NEW VP OF MARKETING!
SEN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
POLISH UP YOUR 30-SECOND COMMERCIAL
ARC REPORT
Quick Links
 
 
OFFICER GREETINGS!
 
Mike Hayashi
Message from Your President, Mike Hayashi, M.Ed.
 
You never have too many good ideas, too many new business strategies or too much encouragement and inspiration. For these reasons alone, you can't afford to miss Maureen Mulvaney - a.k.a. "MGM" to most people. I first saw her do a short keynote session in front of thousands of women up in Northern California in 1992 and watched her just dazzle the audience. She is like the energizer bunny on steroids and will have you walk out pumped up and full of ideas to help make this an awesome year. MGM is one of the most sought after speakers in the country, and we are very lucky to have had a date that matched her calendar to be in town and provide us with a program that most pay big $$$ for around the country. If you want to a real treat and want to hear a seasoned veteran of the platform, register early and come see why her career spans three decades with the Fortune 500 and hundreds of national associations worldwide.

The other reason to attend the meeting in February is for the networking and getting more relationships built within our chapter. After attending the ARC meeting this past month and hearing from the other ABWA chapters around the Valley, I feel even more enthused and committed to utilizing all the resources and potential affiliates among our members and monthly visitors to our Scottsdale Express Network. All of us have to get on board to make each month's meetings stronger and more beneficial and advantageous to our business, our referral base, and to our bottom lines.

With the holidays, the Inauguration and almost all the Football games --"Except For One" - left to play this season, all of our attention should be focused on doing more and working smarter in 2009 to turn it into the best year we've had in the last 4 or 5. But, we have to dedicate our time wisely. Coming consistently to these monthly meetings is a good start. With the help of MGM; let us provide you with another 90-minute lunch hour that will expand your horizons, empower you to tackle new challenges this month, and open the doors to starting new business relationships you discover within our own membership.  Stay strong, healthy & safe.


Mike Hayashi, M.Ed., Owner
TakeControlSelfDefense.com
Contact:  (480) 221-0044 

Don't forget our thought & tagline for this year:
 
"A Woman's Place is in CONTROL!"
 
And, remember our monthly goal: Register yourself early for the February 10 meeting and bring at least one guest. See you all then for another business-expanding 90 minutes.   
THE SEN MISSION
 
The Mission of Scottsdale Express Network is:
 sen
 
To provide a fun, supportive and nurturing environment to help our
professional members grow and prosper through networking, continuing
education, recognition and leadership opportunities.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 PROGRAM
 

How To Attract Paying Clients Who Become Lunatic Fans that Refer Others

 MGM2

Maureen G. Mulvaney, MGM,  International Speaker and author of ~The Women's Millionaire Club~teaches small businesses 'How To' Attract Paying Clients Who Become Lunatic Fans that Refer Others.


In MGM's 'Cutting Edge', 'Laugh as You Learn', 'WOW' presentation you will learn 3 strategies that will increase your business immediately.

Be prepared to Laugh as you Learn.


Un-Bacio
7704 E. Doubletree Ranch Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

 

Networking - 11:15 - 11:45 am

Luncheon - 11:45 am to 1:15 pm

 

Lunch and Networking - $25 members / $35 guests

 

By Advance Reservation Only ($10 additional at the door)

 

Payable to:

ABWA-Scottsdale Express Network, PO Box 71636, Phoenix, AZ 85050

or Register Online Now Contact Phone: 602-430-3745

 

Guests:

If bringing a friend at $25 each, please indicate both names if paying by check
FUTURE PROGRAMS
 
March 10

 
"Clients to Say... I Need That! Finding Your Irresistible 'Juicy' Benefits"
 
Presented by: Lisa Cherney, President of Conscious MarketingCherneyLISA
 
Have you noticed lately that everyone is promising to help you "make more money," or "feel happier?" We often ignore these promises because we hear them so often. So, how do we stand out in the crowd? How do we communicate the benefits of our product or service so our clients will actually hear us? The key is connecting with our "Juice," that authentic passion that comes from inside. 
 
When you uncover and communicate your Juicy Benefits with clarity and conviction, your Ideal Clients will finally understand how you can help them. In fact, we nearly eliminate the notion of competition when we find these words. Clients appreciate why you and your expertise are unique and they say, "I need that!" 
 
In this interactive discussion, you will get to the core of what makes you and your service distinctive, and how to communicate your capabilities in the sales and marketing process. Uncovering this Juice and articulating the passion for what you do, will give you clarity to communicate an authentic marketing message that will attract tons of your ideal clients.


April 14


Successful Networking through the Business Journal - Dave Sherman
How to Mix, Mingle, and Schmooze Your Way to More Business

Presented by: Dave Sherman
 
Networking is one of the most effective ways to grow a successful and profitable business.  Unfortunately, most people don't have the tips, tools, or techniques necessary to make the most of business or social functions.
 
Dave Sherman, professional speaker, trainer, and best-selling author, will explain how the Business Journal can help you become an amazing networking professional and make the most of every event you attend.  You will learn:
How to Connect with More Power Players
The Very Best Places to Network
The Importance of Proper Follow-Up
The Best Places for Continuing Education
AND SO MUCH MORE!

 

NEW MEMBER PROMOTION
darn good deals
 
Christina Wagner: darngooddeals.net
ABWA'S PROUD CODE OF CONDUCT
 ABWA

1.   All members will serve as goodwill ambassadors for the American Business Women's Association.

2.   Members will not allow their personal beliefs and convictions to interfere with the representation of ABWA's mission.

3.   Members will always treat their member colleagues, guests, vendors and sponsors with honesty, respect, fairness, integrity, responsibility, kindness, and in good faith

4. Members will maintain compliance with ABWA National, Chapter and Express Network Bylaws.

5. Members will not use their personal power to advance their personal interests.

6. Members will strive for excellence in their professions by maintaining and enhancing their own business knowledge and skills, and by encouraging the professional development of other members.

MINDING YOUR BUSINESS
 
Minding Your Business
 
Like many consumers, I feel customer service has changed. The economy is going through a rough patch, which makes customer service a stronger priority than it was during times of previous financial gain. Happy customers make for repeat customers. If you are an organization that believes customer service should be about utilizing the least amount of effort to get maximum profit, it is time to go back to basics.
 
When you are a business owner, you need to remember that customer service is a two-way street. Issues that personally annoy you as a customer are the very same things that bother your clients. The wants and needs of others can be extremely similar to your own.
 
Remember these three basic customer service steps:

1. Be a wealth of information. It is mandatory that your clients think of you or your organization as experts. Stay in touch with your customers and give them recommendations or suggestions about how to use your
products or services. This is not an opportunity to sell; this is a chance  to keep your organization in the forefront. People like to do business with an expert, and they desire to form a relationship with you.
 
2. Give your clients what they want. If you do not know what your customer is looking for, you need to do your research. Purchasing an item or service is usually only a part of the transaction. Your client needs advice and guidance. They do not want to be treated as if they do not matter, or as if you are too busy to assist them.
 
3. Give choices. If you understand the needs of your customers, you know that they need choices. When you listen o the wants and needs of your customers, they enjoy the reflective response of being able to choose what is best for them. They also understand and appreciate that you only want the best for the.
 
ATM's, drive-up windows and other self-service conveniences have conditioned many of us to forget what an important tool interpersonal relationships are to customer service. Your business should never be considered a faceless, automated place of service. Remember the three steps and change how your clients think about your business.
 
This article is from the Sarpy Sun by Carol Blood; permission for republication by
Cheryl Downey, Publisher  

Contributed by Norma Earl, Member, Scottsdale Express Network
NETWORKING EVENTS!
 
Saturday, February 7
 
Attend the 2009 Women Entrepreneurs Small Business Bootcamp
A Power Packed Day at the Chapparal Suites Resort
 
Come celebrate the successes of the mighty micro-business. Expand your expertise, explore new opportunities, gain new resources, mingle with your peers and enjoy this exciting day of education and motivation that will energize, synergize and maximize your success.
 
Visit the link and see the line up for the day! This event has grown in popularity and size every year.

Bootcamp



 
Tuesday, March 3 at the Sheraton Downtown Phoenix

Phoenix Business Journal's 2009 Women in Business Trade Show & Luncheon:

This annual event draws more than 400 local women executives.  The 2009 event features the annual luncheon, a presentation honoring 25 of the Valley's top Women Business Professionals, Q & A panel discussion of challenges and successes Valley business women face and have achieved, along with an extended trade show. Businesses who have participated in the trade show in the past have been women-targeted professional service firms including women focused non-profits, banks, Realtors, handbag and jewelry retailers, authors, leadership trainers, life coaches and others.
 
As an added benefit to our members ASBA has partnered with the Phoenix Business Journal to provide you special pricing for an exhibit booth at this years trade show. 

Regular price- $450, ASBA members price $400. Price includes exhibit booth, 2 tickets to the luncheon and presentation (valued at $190), access to afternoon breakout session and happy hour.

This is a limited time offer and is valid through February 13th.  
 
To take advantage of this special ASBA member pricing simply click on this link and use the promo code RUCX5340 when registering.

Details on the event:

General Registration and Trade Show Doors Open: 10:00 a.m.

Trade Show Hours:  10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch)

Luncheon & Main Program: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Breakout Sessions:  2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Happy Hour - Cocktails and Networking on Trade Show Floor:  3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
 
AN ABWA EVENT
 TC Dance Flyer
MEET OUR NEW VP OF MARKETING!
CTE and ABWA
Shawn Ward, Arizona Fire & Water Restoration

As Business Development Director for Arizona Fire and Water Restoration, Shawn is involved with numerous networking organizations. ABWA is one of Shawn's favorites because the members actually network from within the group. Many organizations promise referrals but ABWA actually delivers! Shawn has worked in sales and marketing for more than 20 years.

She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Ahwatukee as well as chairing and/or serving on numerous other committees through various trade associations. She has lived here in the Valley for 3 years; she is originally from Orange County, California.

 
SEN BOARD MEETING MINUTES
 ABWA
January 6, 2008, 5:30 p.m.

Mike, Donna and Katheryn in attendance; Kim was absent.


Katheryn has paid the ARC dues for the year and paid SAM for Web updates, December. Our treasury is building every month. We now have enough to cover the $300 tax filing and the $500 donation to SBMEF for the year.

Newsletter: Few are reading it. Mike suggested that we off incentive to read it. Double the number of 50/50 tickets at the next meeting to those who read the newsletter.

Mike will check with Kim to see what she has planned for programs after March. Lisa Cherney is March with "Finding Your Irresistible Juicy Benefits." Katheryn suggested a panel on finance sometime in the future.

Mike and Kim will finalize a venue for an April evening networking event before the February board meeting. A wine tasting seems to be the best bet. Mike will talk to Gilat for ideas.

Kim will close the applications for Woman of the Year at the meeting on Tuesday.

Donna will present an "ABWA Minute." Kathryn would like to hear reenforcement about the business skills tuition reimbursement and the grant program - make it clear to everyone.

Mike has set a goal of 25 attendees for the February meeting - at least - for MGM. Let's get the word out. Perhaps, MGM can promote it to her network too.

Mike is still seeking a VP of Marketing for the organization.

Arizona Regional Council: Donna can't attend the changed meeting date on Jan. 17. Katheryn will go as the alternate delegate; Mike will attend also. Donna will make reservations for them both.

Meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
 
Respectfully submitted,
Donna Tucker, VP of Communications and Education
5 EASY STEPS TO POLISHING UP YOUR 30-SECOND COMMERCIAL

by Betsy Ingram, Art Consultant, Artful Decor
Betsy Ingram
 
1. K.I.S.S. - We have all heard this before but in this case it is true. Keep it Simple and Succinct. Don't try to say too much or you will lose your audience. Don't use industry jargon or technical talk as most people are embarrassed to ask what you mean because they don't want to appear stupid or uninformed.

2. Know your audience - You may need to adjust your elevator speech to different audiences. Are all your customers exactly alike? No, well neither are the people you will be presenting your 30-second commercial to. Have several memorized and apply one that best fits the audience you will be speaking with.

3. Speak clearly and with inflection. How you present your speech is a reflection of your self confidence in what you do and how you feel about your work. Consider your cadence and tone. Be sure you are speaking loud enough; that you are not monotone or mumbling. If your audience can't hear what you have to say they will not know what you can offer them. Practice, practice, practice; in this case a mirror can be your best friend.

4. What is your hook? How are you going to grab their attention? Why is what you are saying important to them? Remember this is not a sales pitch. You want your 30-second commercial to engage your audience to ask you questions that will lead to a conversation about what you do and which need you can fill for them.

5. Make it memorable. Make your name stand out. Some of the best commercials have a tagline such as Linda Cobb, The Queen of Clean™ or our Arrowhead Millennium Chapter's Joanne Gallagher, The Mortgage Maker. Work on your tagline and don't forget laughter can be part of it as humor is memorable.

Betsy Ingram, an Art Consultant with Artful Decor, is committed to helping bring your style and personality to your home or office with affordable quality framed artwork on canvas. I bring the art gallery to you which saves you time and money.

betsy ingram - artful decor


ABWA SPECIAL EVENT!
showcase 2009 
ARIZONA REGIONAL COUNCIL REPORT
Katheryn Morton
by Katheryn Morton, Alternate Delegate


The ABWA Arizona Regional Council (ARC) met on Saturday, January 17, 2009. The Council is the governing body for all the ABWA groups in Arizona, both Chapters and Express Networks (www.abwa-arizona.org). The big event this month was the installation of the 2009 officers. They are: President, Lori Grobe; Vice President, Barbara Sparrgrove; Secretary, Sue Flaig; Treasurer, Ruth Breen. These officers will guide the statewide activities for the next year.
 
Each chapter reported about future events and any issues they want to discuss with other chapters. Several groups are having some great fundraisers coming up. Turquoise Camel Chapter is creating a Valentine's experience with dancing and Big Band music on February 13, SouthWest Valley Express Network is hosting a Self-Defense class for Women (taught by our own Mike Hayashi) on February 28 and the Mountain Stars Chapter from ShowLow is sponsoring their annual Golf Tournament in June 2009.
 
The annual events that are hosted by the ARC are the Annual Women of the Year luncheon known as "Showcase," the Statewide Roundup, a Leadership Conference and the Presidents' Tea. Each of these events and the plans were discussed. Showcase is being held on March 7 at the Arrowhead Country Club; it is hoped each of the groups will have a nominee for Woman of the Year. It was proposed that Roundup and the Leadership Conference be combined this year due to travel expenses. A committee was formed to investigate the possibilities. Mike will be attending the Presidents' Tea in February.
 ARC logo
The board set the remaining meetings for the Council. The meetings will be held at the Rock Bottom Restaurant at Desert Ridge on the 2nd Saturday of April, July and October 2009 and January 2010.
 
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in attending this event to meet the representatives from the other groups.
 
Respectfully submitted, Katheryn Morton, SEN VP of Finance


And don't forget ABWA District VI Spring Conference in Tucson, March 20 and 21, 2009.
 
For information about meetings or membership, contact VP of Communications, Donna Tucker: 602-788-3121.
 
We hope you enjoyed this issue of the SEN News. Send questions, comments or contributions to Donna Tucker 602-788-3121 ABWA-network@att.net
 
The ABWA mission: To bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition