Greetings!
Last month we talked about discovering your passion. I gave you some powerful questions to help you identify your passion and then challenged you to decide what you will do to start living it.
Did you?
Take a few minutes to share with us what YOU are passionate about and how you have taken that first or next step to live it out more. Just click here. How does it feel? I can't wait to hear about it!
This month's feature article is about your Unique Value Proposition (UVP). Each of us have that special something, that something that makes us stand out from others personally and professionally. This is a must-read if you want to identify your UVP and how you can use it to make strides in your life and work.
Also, check out the November special below. You can't pass this one up with the holidays around the corner!
Last but not least...thank you to those of you who participated in the LYL Survey last month. Look for a special report mid-November.
Have a productive month!
Go Confidently,
Sara Clark-Williams
Founder and Life Coach for Women
Launch Your Life
P.S. Go to the LYL Blog now to share what you are doing to experience your passion! Click on "Discover Your Passion" on the home page. |
 7 Steps to Stand Out in Your Life and Work
Do You Know Your Unique Value Proposition?
Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) is defined as the unique value you or your business offers to its audience or customers. It's why your customers, employers, constituents, patrons, members, etc. will want to do business with you. Here's a personal example of one thing that differentiates me from my competition: my interpersonal ability- my ability to connect with all kinds of people on a real level and get crystal clear on the goal. What's yours?
Understanding your UVP is paramount to the level of impact that you can have in your endeavors.
Click Here for the 7 Steps |
Has it been too long since you've had a good professional photo taken?
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Do you want photos that you can actually feel good about sharing with your friends, family or colleagues? You know, a photo that shows your "good" side?
Beki Dawn Photography
delivers unique, artistic photos that you will absolutely love!
Because you are a friend of Launch Your Life Beki has agreed to give you these special one-time discounts! Check 'em out...
Visit www.bekidawnphotography.com for more information or simply contact Beki directly at beki@bekidawnphotography.com or at (760) 715-2481. Offer expires 12/31/08. (Christmas Package sittings must be scheduled by 12/6/08). |
Spotlight
Beki Andreasen
Owner, Beki Dawn Photography
Starting your own business is quite a jump. How did you get started with your photography business? When did you know that you wanted to branch out on your own?
"It started with Brian (my husband) and Maddie (my daughter). I have always been into photography, but never really had anyone to practice on until I had Maddie. My husband kept telling me how good the pictures were and encouraged me to offer photography for free on MySpace to see if others liked it too. I met with some people and set up sittings, and that's how it got started. I've always wanted to do it on my own, but didn't have the confidence. Prior to starting bd Photography, I worked for 8 years doing photography for other companies. In fact, I still work full time with a local photography company and run my business in the evenings and weekends."
This month's feature article talks about Unique Value Proposition. What do you have to offer that may be unique from your competitors, that your customers value?
"My clients tell me that I'm unique from other photographers in my style (I capture shots in a candid AND artistic way) and that I make them feel comfortable. That's what sets me apart from most people."
One of the things about a UVP is that it seems to be something that we not only have, but can continue to strive for. How do you plan on improving your ability to fulfill your UVP even more in the future?
"With photography there's always room to grow-- new and different things to learn and even flexibility to change your UVP. There may be something new that I come across that I think customers will love. I try to keep up with new trends and find my own way of doing them."
What do you like most about running your own photography business? What do you find to be the most challenging?
"I love seeing someone who is truly touched at the first sight of a picture I have taken. Seeing someone cry over a picture of their child, or even of them and their spouse on their wedding day is the best thing ever! When someone is so touched by a picture I took of them it makes all of the hours of shooting and editing worth it. Making people happy with photography is what I love."
"The most challenging thing for me is the business part. I don't enjoy keeping track of the money. I've also learned a lot about how not to sell yourself short when it comes to pricing. I definitely would suggest to any woman who owns a business or who is considering starting her own business, to be strong and stick to your business and pricing strategies. Don't cut people deals unless it's family and friends. Sure, you can start off with very affordable pricing, but be sure it's a fair price so you are making money."
What do you enjoy doing when you're not doing shoots or touching up photos?
"I work full time AND on my business in the evenings and weekends so when I have spare time I spend it with my family. If there's any extra time I enjoy reading fiction and watching TV, and just living life! Photography was my hobby and now it's my career. It's tough because I rarely get to see my daughter, Maddie (17 months old) so when I do have some free time I spend it with her and my husband. I also have a dog who demands our attention too- her name is "Faith," a lab mix."
What advice would you give other women who are thinking about starting their own business?
"It all depends on what they are starting. Get online. Chat boards have been very helpful for me. I met a lot of great people on the "Starting your own photography business" chat board. Find someone who is already in the field and get all the knowledge and advice you can in starting your business. Be confident in yourself and just go for it. Keep your job until you know it's something that you really want to do."
What advice would you give to women about standing out from their competitors, whether getting a dream job, a grant funded or a new customer?
"Make your customers comfortable with you; build relationships with them so they feel like they know you. Give them what they want and more."
Beki can be contacted via email at Beki@bekidawnphotography.com. |
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