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Archives for October 2015

20 Affirmations to Empower You at Work

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[vc_row][vc_column][dt_fancy_title title=”charellstar.com” title_align=”left” title_size=”small”][vc_column_text]The average women spends about a third of her day at work at least 5 times a week. Since work is such a huge part of our lives, it is important that we equip ourselves to succeed in this area. If you believe that you are what you think, then, changing the narrative you tell yourself daily will eventually bring about the development of a strong woman. Try stating the following affirmative statements daily and see how you feel!

  1. My body is healthy; my mind is brilliant; my soul is tranquil.
  2. I am superior to negative thoughts and low actions.
  3. I possess the qualities needed to be extremely successful.
  4. My business and brand are growing, expanding and thriving.
  5. My obstacles are moving out of my way; my path is cleared for greatness.
  6. I am at peace with all that has happened, is happening and will happen.
  7. My mind is free from the shackles of fear.
  8. I have amazing potential.
  9. I am beautiful, strong and full of grace.
  10. I see endless opportunities before me.
  11. I utilize my time to maximize my success.
  12. I build peaceful relationships with my colleagues.
  13. I am a productive employee. I take my work seriously and always give my best.
  14. I am assertive. I walk and speak my truth in love.
  15. I release my need to compare myself to others. I am enough just as I am.
  16. I release my attachment to everything that no longer serves me and my career growth.
  17. I take full responsibility for my life.
  18. I am worthy of success.
  19. I will live. I will survive. I will thrive.
  20. I create a path for the ones who come after me.

Pin this list somewhere visible in your home or office, and look at it at least once a day. You can use any of these affirmations alone, or create a combination specifically for your needs. Our words carry immense power – a creative power.

Empower yourself daily. Create the change you desire to see.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

3 Marketing Questions Every Entrepreneur Must Ask Themselves

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So you’re an entrepreneur. You’ve made a product, set up a website, and are excited that your dreams are actually coming true. But before you head out to take over the world, I have two pretty important business questions to ask you…WHAT IS YOUR MARKETING STRATEGY? What steps will you take to help the public know who you are and what you offer? As much as you are convinced your product will be loved by the masses, having a marketing strategy is almost as important as the product itself.

Large companies pay marketing agencies millions of doallrs to develop marketing plans. Part of the initial consultation requires the company to fill out a fancy questionnaire to find out more about them and their objectives. In addition, the survey forces the company to re-evaluate certain aspects of their business. Some of these questions include:

1. Who Exactly Are You Selling To?

It is a simple question that’s easy for entrepreneurs to overlook. We assume that everyone with money is a potential customer. But that is not true. The most successful businesses have envisioned their customer’s age, income range, family structure, spending habits and more. I’ve even heard business owners putting an imaginary face and name to their “potential customer” to make it more of a tangible concept. Identifying your target market makes it easy for employees to remember who they are making the product for and also for the customer to feel that the product was made for them.

2. What Makes You Different? 

Customers are constantly bombarded with ads and products over-promising and, (occasionally), under performing. This naturally makes people skeptical to buy products that they have never heard of. From a marketing perspective, this is an excellent opportunity for an entrepreneur to show customers what it is that makes their product different. The differences are what truly sell products. That is why it is so important for you to know, believe, and show your customers what they are.

3. What Are Your Short and SEMI-Long Term Marketing Goals?

Truly successful businesses know that the key to gaining exposure is consistency. The level of exposure can vary, but not being socially present is a kiss of death. This is why companies come up with seasonal campaigns and promotions. It gives them a chance to remail fresh and relevant. Now as an entrepreneur, the big budget approach may not always be possible. You may have to start slowly increasing exposure through multi-media approaches, (print media, social media, and face-to-face opportunities). Setting a timeline of short to semi-long term achievable tasks is a great way to make sure your name is getting out there. Also, by not setting a definite long term goal keeps you flexible and able to re-evaluate your approach at anytime, if needed, without feeling a sense of failure.

Having a marketing strategy is crucial to the success of a business. Using the questions above will get you on the road to developing a plan to increase exposure and build brand recognition.

Nicola Styles of BCGMAGAZINE

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Womeneur Spotlight” google_fonts=”font_family:Open%20Sans%3A300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic%2C800%2C800italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Take a walk down the path of these entrepreneurs, business owners and progressive women.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” bg_type=”image” parallax_style=”vcpb-default” bg_image_new=”id^3043|url^https://www.womeneur.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/womeneur-spotlight-nicola-styles-of-ttf-magazine-aka-the-typical-female_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1.jpg|caption^null|alt^null|title^womeneur-spotlight-nicola-styles-of-ttf-magazine-aka-the-typical-female_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1|description^null” css=”.vc_custom_1461340021255{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1486792680007{margin-bottom: -2px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Nicola Styles of BCGMAGAZINE

VISUAL CREATIVE ADVISOR[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”5″ accent_color=”#e3672b” css=”.vc_custom_1460496937176{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Website: www.beautycocktailsgirltalk.com

Social Media: [dt_social_icons animation=”none” alignment=”default”][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”facebook” link=”https://www.facebook.com/bcgmag” /][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”twitter” link=”https://twitter.com/bcgmagazine” /][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/bcgmagazine/” /][/dt_social_icons][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5958″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Successful businesses often spark from a place of passion; the blessing of finding what you love and creating a career from it. The icing on the cake is developing a platform that can help many people for years to come. Nicola Debbie-Ann has created that platform after years of Graphic Design, Web Development and Branding under her belt, she decided to pursue her aspiration of creating one of the most inspiring and sought out online magazines with a no-holds-bar approach. BCGMAGAZINE aka Beauty, Cocktails & #Girltalk.  

With a fantastic website, magazine and youtube channel (BCGTV), Nicola and her team inspire, entertain and motivate innovative young women to reach their full potential and tap into their inner Sasha Fierce.

This Womeneur shares with us how she came to this point and how BCGMAGAZINE came to light!

What inspired your journey into business?

Women. I felt that I had something to share and a lot to give. Media is so over saturated and commercial I wanted a place where I can have a real conversation with women aspiring to be the best they can be despite the odds.

What steps did you take to start your business?

Honestly, I had no real steps at first. I had a passion and a feeling, and I just went with it. Once my love became more of reality, I began to focus extra of my time on taking steps to perfect my vision. However, I made a lot of mistakes along the way. So once I realized my mistakes, I started with Step 1: You should believe wholeheartedly in YOURSELF; not your brand, just you! I focused on this because what I’m trying to create will be nothing without me standing behind it 100%.  I realized that no one would love what you create the way you do. So I started by believing in myself fully so I can share what I love entirely.

What are your biggest fears?

Not feeling excited about what I am doing professionally. I always want to love what I created. And, missing out on other womeneurs accomplishments because of my schedule. I always want to make time to show support and admire my fellow entrepreneur accomplishments.

What do you do to stay motivated when you feel like giving up?

I pray, and I pray hard, especially in the shower, that’s my spa moment as well as practicing yoga. Yoga is the best thing I’ve ever decided to do in my life; this brought about real change.  Also, I try and make a conscious effort to help others that may be struggling or just need help or direction. I have experiences that I know can help others, and that can range from creating a logo, a photo, and even spark a conversation that can motivate people. Helping others is like caffeine for me, it gives me a pick me up, and it’s fulfilling knowing that I’ve done something good and that someone feels they can come to me for advice, guidance or even a chat.

What are your weakness in business and how have you worked past them?

Ironically, I have found that helping friends is not the best things to do at times. I learned how important it is not to mix business with friendship. Although, I’ve made great friends along my successful journey in entrepreneurship. I think making friends with women who have the same goals as you can make great bonds. I now say no, and If I can, I happily refer them to someone else. Also, working with the wrong people. I used to put what I needed to help my brand before my gut. Meaning, bringing on people that I felt can assist me even though I had a funny feeling about them. In the long run, I realize they did more harm than good. Pay attention to that gut feeling it’s true to its nature.

What is most rewarding?

It has to be people’s reaction. I love when I hear “great article” or “your website looks fantastic.” To me the positive responses are priceless.

Who were you before you started your business?

Ha, I can write a book on that description. My background includes a graphic designer, web designer, invitations designer and illustrator to name a few. I have some experience with event planning also. Before that, I had a 10-year career in Telecommunication Project Management. Great job, great pay, but for me, boring, and unsatisfying. Now,  part time I also illustrate for A+E Network, Lifetime Network, and Project Runway. Like I don’t have enough on my plate :).

If you had to do it again, what (if anything) would you do differently?

Not rely on the support of someone else. At the beginning of my entrepreneurial venture, I lacked confidence and thought I needed a partner. I slowly began to believe in myself, and I realized that I could do this all on my own. And I am!

Share one good software or application you can’t live without?

Photoshop. That software is a lifesaver. If I could carry it in my bag as an accessory, I would. I recommend everyone learn Photoshop, even if it is just the basics. I use it every day. Also, Asana. I’m able to manage my growing team, editorials and more.

What’s your secret to cultivating a relationship between you and your readers?

For me, it’s connecting with them, letting them know we care about what they want to read. I named the magazine Beauty, Cocktails and #Girltalk because these are some of the things that resonate with women. Especially, #GIRLTALK. Life happens, and it is important for us to talk about it. Celebrate it and acknowledge it.  Readers don’t just want attention; they want to be connected. They want to know that there are people just like them and we are willing to share that. It’s ideal for us to start something that is all about our vision, but once we capture an audience/readers, we want to make sure we listen, so they come back for more.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

I used to say I see us having a print magazine, but recently I change my mind. I would like an entire media network. Somewhere we can introduce up and comers, share new talent and show support to leading businesses like Womeneur. I see great things, and I have huge announcements coming soon.

What are three tips you can share with budding and current entrepreneurs/business owners?

  1. Share. Share failures, experiences, and give advice to others. No need to compete. Look past your business and think about how much we need our economy to thrive. If we help each other grow, then someone will eventually have a job. Believe it or not, there is more than enough for everyone. I believe in the community of competition. Don’t sell yourself short, work hard at being the best at what you do. Remember, with kindness comes rewards of abundance.
  2. Do not explain or worry about business support from “9-5ers.” A person who only knows the traditional 9-5 job and has no idea what it takes to run a business. No matter how much you try, you will never get their approval. It only has to make sense to you. Focus on creating a network full of entrepreneurial females just like yourself. Resources like Womeneur can build great connections. Make sure you utilize that kind of system.
  3. Remove yourself from negative people, places or things. Do you know why people move to Silicon Valley, the startup city? It’s not just to create apps or businesses. You can do that anywhere. It’s because of the community atmosphere and all the positive energy that flows through there. People go there to win so if everyone that goes there wants to be a winner or think they are one that energy spreads like wildfire.  Negative friends or even sometimes family members can put a damper on your business goals. Remove yourself kindly. It’ is okay, you are allowed to be selfish when it comes to your goals and dreams. Positive surroundings and people are so important, to your mental state; this is what is going to enable you to survive the entrepreneurship world. Keep your environment as positive as possible. Also, don’t be afraid to start over, even if it’s in the same industry. It took me three tries to get it right. And as they say, the third time is a charm.

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6 Apps to Help Track Your Business Expenses

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Expense tracking can often seem to be an afterthought, especially if you travel frequently.  Yet it can be a necessary part of owning a small business, if you want to take advantage of tax laws and avoid potential trouble with the IRS. Now that most of us are carrying smartphones, expense tracking has arguably never been easier. Here are 10 business expense apps that can help make expense tracking much less painful.

1. Mileage Log+

If you travel often by car for your business, Mileage Log+ might be a helpful app for tracking your mileage and expenses. The iOS app was designed with IRS compliance in mind, and does some nice things for quickly entering frequent trips. You can also sync and backup your data with Dropbox.

2. Expensify

Expensify is a popular iOS app for tracking business expenses, used by over 300,000 companies and 2.5 million individuals. Expensify captures receipts, tracks time and mileage, as well as quickly creates expense reports. The app has built-in SmartScan technology that, like Evernote, is able to find text in pictures. Taking a picture of your receipt means that Expensify can read the image as well, quickly creating the expense.

3. Concur 

Concur (iOS, Android, Windows) is a comprehensive time tracking and travel app that allows you to capture, manage and track business receipts, approve expense reports, itemize hotel charges and approve travel requests, to name a few features. The app also boasts some nifty features for managing travel: You can book airfare and hotels, check in on car and flight itineraries, check flight status and more. Concur only has a 30-day trial before you’ll have to purchase one of its plans, starting at $8/month.

4. MoneyWise

MoneyWise is more of a universal money management application for Android. Create budgets, monitor cash flow and track expenses on the go. While it’s not a business-only app, it’s still a handy expense and cash flow tracker. MoneyWise is a free app, and has gotten 4/5 stars from over 6,500 users (at press time).

5. Cashbook

Cashbook may not win any awards for the prettiest app in the world, but it gets the job done for many Android business owners. It’s actually quite robust in terms of features offered. Some notable features include tracking mileage by GPS, backing up to Dropbox, making expense charts and graphs, filing reports, a timer, calculator and more. Cashbook costs $5.99 in the Google Play store for Android.

6. Expense Manager

Expense Manager is an Android app that not only tracks expenses and budgets; it provides a clean interface to quickly add expenses, and has some other useful bells and whistles like the ability to add payment reminders, take pictures of receipts, schedule payments and more. The app uses Google Drive to back up data for peace of mind. Probably the most impressive thing about Expense Manager is that the app is currently being used on 1 million to 5 million phones at the time of this writing.

Read the entire article on American Express Open Forums

Negative Mind Tales

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[vc_row][vc_column][dt_fancy_title title=”thegrio.com” title_align=”left” title_size=”small”][vc_column_text]

It’s not who you are that holds you back; it’s who you think you’re not.

~ Denis Waitley

Sometime ago, I was practicing Yoga and as I lay on my mat, after a few failed attempts at attaining a crow’s pose (bakasana) and tripod headstand (sirsasana II), I began to wonder why it was so difficult for me. To say I struggled, would be a gross understatement. Balancing my knees on my elbows felt impossible; the more I tried, the harder I fell.

I looked around me in a look of frustration and defeat only to find everyone else in the class holding each pose almost effortlessly. The thoughts flooded in as they often do. My mind told me that I was inflexible, I had weak arms, I had too much body fat, I was racially predisposed to “unbendy” limbs and so much more. On that mat, I realized that my mind was my limitation. The stories my mind was telling me were false. I could see the woman to my left, who was bigger than I was, holding her poses beautifully; so clearly, size was not an issue. One of my favorite websites Black Yogis, shows me that there is no such thing as “black people don’t do yoga”. It was clear that I’d let my mind get the best of me. I listened to the little Miss Negative Nancy that lived in my mind. She was wrong.

After this experience, I began to question every single one of my ‘mind tales.’

Tales such as “pretty girls have straight hair”, “my curvy frame makes me unattractive”, “I speak English with an accent, so people will always look at me sideways”, “I am introvert, no one is interested in what I have to say”. Over time, I have found all of them to be false!

What tales are you being told by your mind? Are you letting little Miss Negative Nancy get the best of you? Are these false stories holding you hostage to your fears? Have you convinced yourself that because you don’t have a solid educational background, it is impossible to succeed in life? Have you convinced yourself that black women don’t do this and don’t do that? If you are guilty of this, then it is time to STOP and re-evaluate.

It is time for a paradigm shift. In life, more than half of the battles are fought and are won or lost in our mind! Losing weight becomes less of a constraint when you “get your mind right”. When you change your mind tales, going back to school and getting that degree becomes a reality and not just a dream. Your mind tales can either propel you to take action in life, or make you a sitting duck reacting to every high and low of life.

See limitations as they truly are- opportunities for growth.

I can. You can. We can. We will.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Charnae Stanley of RAW (Recognize A Women) Handbags

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Womeneur Spotlight” google_fonts=”font_family:Open%20Sans%3A300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic%2C800%2C800italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Take a walk down the path of these entrepreneurs, business owners and progressive women.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” bg_type=”image” parallax_style=”vcpb-default” bg_image_new=”id^3029|url^https://www.womeneur.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/charnae-stanley-of-raw-recognize-a-woman-handbags_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1.jpg|caption^null|alt^null|title^charnae-stanley-of-raw-recognize-a-woman-handbags_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1|description^null” css=”.vc_custom_1461337192772{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1461337129608{margin-bottom: -2px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

CHARNAE’ STANLEY OF RAW (RECOGNIZE A WOMAN) HANDBAGS

[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”5″ accent_color=”#e3672b” css=”.vc_custom_1460496937176{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Website:

Social Media: [dt_social_icons animation=”none” alignment=”default”][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”facebook” link=”http://www.facebook.com/RAWHandbags” /][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”instagram” link=”http://instagram.com/shopraw” /][/dt_social_icons][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”3028″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Charnae Stanley is the designer and brains behind the handbag line Recognize A Women (RAW) which holds the purpose of recognizing and empowering ALL women.The Recognize A Woman brand was established March 2015, launching RAW Handbags first Spring collection April 4, 2015.  Each item is named after a powerful, iconic, influential woman in the world. RAW is an online based business, also participating at various mixers, pop-ups, soirees & other networking events. Recognize the woman in YOU! RAW Handbags are handmade handbags designed for women to make a statement!. Charnae’s designs hold the message of woman being and living Fearlessly, having the ability to Spread Womanhood & Inspire other women to be phenomenal!

This Womeneur shared with us her business journey, how she maintains her mission and passion and the future for RAW.

What inspired your journey into business?
Before earning my Accounting & MBA degrees, I was a fashion major. It had always been my passion however I took the road of security. After experiencing anxiety on my corporate job & the fear of not being fulfilled in life I vowed to never get stuck. I then created RAW March 2015. Being an inspirationalist, a designer and uplifting females brings joy and excitement to my day!!!

What steps did you take to start your business?
I followed protocol for business regulations i.e. (EIN, DBA, etc.). Also gathering the necessary materials needed to make my first clutch. I increased the networking events I attended, read inspiring stories about entrepreneurial evolution and seeking counsel from others. I set goals for myself and try to be patient in understanding things don’t happen overnight. I take each day one step at a time and work with what I have

What are your biggest fears?
My greatest fear is consistency. I fear that I will lose momentum or be stagnant.

What do you do to stay motivated when you feel like giving up?
I continuously set goals for myself such as next week I know I have something I need to do, next Spring I have ideas I need to create, next year I have events I want to attend and so on. Each goals makes me stay motivated and keeps me determined to get to the next step.

What are your weakness in business and how have you worked pass them? 
My weaknesses are exposure in my new environment and social media. I’m not a native New Yorker, I recently moved from Maryland. I have attend more networking events and I wear my bags personally at every event. I try to use common hashtags to attract my audience.

What’s been most rewarding?
The most rewarding is seeing my customers wear my creations and receiving those inspiring captions, DMs and statements regarding myself or my handbags. This too keeps me motivated it lets me know my customers are satisfied and my brand is evolving by inspiring these women where they actually feel fearless when they wear RAWH.

Who were you before you started your business?
An average woman working a corporate 9-5 with a dream to be better and bigger than the desk sitting in from of me.

If you had to do it again, what (if anything) would you do differently?
In college, I would have chosen my passion over security. It truly tested my happiness.

What’s one good software or application you cannot live without?
Social Media (Instagram, Facebook & etsy) has helped me with exposure and events.

What’s your secret to cultivating a relationship between you and your customers?
I showcase all customers to show my appreciation and to show the world how each woman wears RAW Handbags and expresses themselves. I also take pictures with customers at the vending events I participate in. I offer discounts as well.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?
I see my business as a brand of empowerment, fashion icon and sold in boutiques. Also establishing consistent significant revenue, loyal participator at annual events, and expanding my target market.

What are 3 tips you can share with budding and current entrepreneurs/business owners?

  1. Never stop dreaming. Don’t ever believe you cannot do or be better than you already are
  2. Work with what you have until you get to where you want to be because hestitation/skepticism will keep you from starting
  3. Network. Attend as many events as possible to gain resources, ask for help and be an inspiration to someone else.

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Define your Own Success

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Success is defined by Webster dictionay as “the fact of getting or achieving wealth, respect or fame or accomplishing one goals.” There was a time when success simply meant obtaining an education, a well respected profession, and having a family of your own. If you did not meet that standard you were deemed a failure in society’s eyes. Thankfully with time the idea of success has evolved.  It is time that we define success for ourselves.  The question you have to ask yourself is “how I you define success?”  In order to do fulfill success for yourself you have to have a clear vision for your life and not how others will define it.

What do you want your life to look like

Success is driven by the goals you fulfill regardless of what they are.  They are your goals and they should be defined by the life you envision for yourself.  I suggest to you that money and power is not enough.  In order to live the life we need, we should incorporate our overall well-being, wisdom, wonder and ability to give. The life that you want to live should involve peace of mind. This is a result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to accomplish every goal you’ve set whether it is to become CEO of a major company or to raise children so they can be the best they can be along with being a supportive wife.

What is your passion

What is that thing that keeps you up at night?  What are you constantly researching? What makes you happy? That thing in your soul, that person you want to help.  That fire, it is what fulfills you.  Be completely honest with yourself, no matter if it is being a great mother to your children or a venture capitalist, it is what drives you.

The Why

When it is all said and done, why are you reaching for success? Why do we have these goals?  Some of us want to travel, some of us want to have a place we can call home.  Some of us are not concerned with having money in the bank.  Some of us want to fulfill a purpose we believe we have.  When you know the reason why you do these things, and you feed into that reason, then you know what success truly means and if you have met it.

3 Power Moves You Need To Make For Your Business In October

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For all of the inspiration, quotes and calls-to-action both on and offline, we all fall short of greatness once in a while. Whether it is procrastination or just being inundated with work and life; we get off track at times and need to refocus ourselves on some key elements of our business that require some extra TLC.

As we wind down to the end of 2015, we should be entering a somewhat reflective time as business owners. The calm of fall invites us to clean up, clear out and plan for 2016. If we’re honest with one another there is no better time than now. Soon we will be greeted by the holidays, colder temperatures, and lots of distractions. It behooves us to stay focused and get our affairs in order before we regret it.

1. Get your expenses, billing and accounting in order. We start the year off great saying that we will put our expenses in as they present so we don’t get behind. Like most New Year’s Resolutions we do this one task well until about February or March and then we are back to letting it pile up on us. Use this time to get all of your receipts together and into your accounting system. You will thank yourself at tax time.

2. Run you Profit and Loss Report year-to-date. Doing this now will help you to see where money is coming in and how it is being spent. It also gives you a heads up on where you can cut back and/or reallocate funds within your business. It’s great to feel successful, but the numbers don’t lie. You need to have a clear financial outlook on your business going into 2016, so you can make improvements and be even more successful. Doing this one thing for myself, I have already identified an area where my rates need to increase to cover my labor as well as my expenses.

    2a. Get an Accounting System A.S.A.P. If you have yet to invest in an accounting system, I highly suggest you add it to your to-do list in the near future. The right accounting system will get you out of the rut of clunky spreadsheets and get you compliant and organized.

3. Unplug and Evaluate Your Business Goals. Take the time to tune everyone and everything out so you can reflect on what went right for the year and what you need to improve. It is in the realm of you can’t know where you are going, if you don’t know where you have been. It’s hard to purposefully plan for your business when you are buried in the day-to-day. I promise you if you step back and analyze your successes and lessons (notice I didn’t say “failures”), you will be in a unique position and space to create greatness for your business in 2016.

We all need and deserve the ability to hit the reset buttons on our lives and businesses. Get ahead of everyone else and start looking at these three aspects of your business. You will thank yourself next month when you know all has been cleaned, cleared, and planned for and you can sail into the holidays with no worries other than the inevitable expansion of your waistline.

Janell Hazelwood of TheBossMoves

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Womeneur Spotlight” google_fonts=”font_family:Open%20Sans%3A300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic%2C800%2C800italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Take a walk down the path of these entrepreneurs, business owners and progressive women.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” bg_type=”image” parallax_style=”vcpb-default” bg_image_new=”id^3025|url^https://www.womeneur.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/womeneur-spotlight-janell-hazelwood-of-thebossmoves_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1.jpg|caption^null|alt^null|title^womeneur-spotlight-janell-hazelwood-of-thebossmoves_650_650_90_ffffffgrayopac-7_s_c1|description^null” css=”.vc_custom_1461336983670{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1461336766770{margin-bottom: -2px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

JANELL HAZELWOOD OF THEBOSSMOVES

[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”5″ accent_color=”#e3672b” css=”.vc_custom_1460496937176{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text]Website:

Social Media: [dt_social_icons animation=”none” alignment=”default”][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”facebook” link=”https://www.facebook.com/Janell-Hazelwood-643419199004193/” /][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”twitter” link=”http://twitter.com/JPHazelwood” /][dt_social_icon target_blank=”true” icon=”instagram” link=”http://instagram.com/JPHazelwood” /][/dt_social_icons][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”3024″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Janell Hazelwood is an award-winning journalist, content manager and host, with more than 10 years experience working for companies including and The New York Times. Her coverage areas have included Career, Small Business, and Global, and she has helmed digital media campaigns for brands including Lexus, AT&T, and PEPSI.

She’s also founder of , a consultancy that provides social media and content management services, and has been a featured expert on career development, entrepreneurship and purpose monetization for companies including E!Online, the Huffington Post, the National Urban League, City University of New York, Face2Face Africa and more.

What inspired your journey into business?
In my time working for media companies including The New York Times and Black Enterprise, I found that there was a significant void in effective brand strategy and social media management as well as content creation, particularly for minority small business owners.

I’d often have an insider’s view into business trends and practices that were successful and proficient—and those that weren’t—and I became privy to how the media industry works in terms of an entrepreneur getting coverage that could lead to expansion of a business’ client base, product exposure and revenue.

An entrepreneur can have the best product or service on the market, but they can’t be competitive if that service or product is not presented on the Web in a way that attracts customers or entices media to tell their success stories.

I sought to help those who do not have the insider knowledge, tools or time needed to mold and execute effective strategies that can not only lead to improvement in the way in which they communicate and serve current clients and customers, but can lead to success in attracting and retaining new ones. I wanted to apply what I’d learned working for and with large brands, who’d made millions with the tools and resources available to them, to give minority entrepreneurs a fair chance at doing the same.

What steps did you take to start your business?
First, I prayed about it. I’m a big believer in the power of faith, and I’m a Christian. This plays a significant role in the choices I make and the activities I take on in my life. Prayer and meditating on the decision to get into entrepreneurship/freelance work is important.

Second, I did my research on what I wanted to do. I used resources like the Young Entrepreneurs Council, BlackEnterprise.com, Levo League, Score.org and HerAgenda.com. I also looked to Entrepreneur and Inc. where I could find a diverse perspective on business and how to start a business, particularly a consultancy.

Third, I got a business mentor/coach who helped me flesh out my ideas, organize my goals and create a business plan. I looked to successful women I knew in my network. I’ve loved working with Anie Akpe, banking industry executive and founder of Innov8tiv.com, and Tani Chambers (www.tanichambers.com), the Mastermind Maven, and I’ve also been helped tremendously by women like Vaneese Johnson of On The Move Careers (www.otmcareers.com), Sherry Simms, founder of Black Career Women’s Network (www.bcwnetwork.com), and national TV host and entrepreneur Tai Beauchamp (www.taibeauchamp.com).

Fourth, I drafted a financial plan for starting/transitioning. Though there are many free tools to help an entrepreneur/freelancer get started, I spent money to start the first phase of my Website, pay for travel to build up my audience/clientele (in terms of sharing my expertise via speaking engagements and hosting gigs) and built a budget for future plans such as publishing my book and investing in upgraded tools for expanding my knowledge for the services I offer. Resources like Salary.com and Elance.com helped me figure out how to charge for my services and where to start in terms of contracting and other related business tasks.

Lastly, I began to expand my network of women in successful positions in consulting, entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, hosting and speaking so I can learn from them and support them as well as get support from them. I love organizations like The Boss Network, the Black Career Women’s Network and the National Association of Women Professionals.

What are your biggest fears?
I don’t like to give in to fears, which are really illusions. Again, I’m a faith-based professional. I’m human, so of course I have fears, but this question was a bit hard to answer, as I believe that my steps are ordered, and if, in my purpose and business, I’m honoring God, I’m good to go.

I guess I could’ve just said my biggest fear is not honoring God in what I do in my life, whether business or personal. That’s my biggest fear.

Also, I want to be sure to offer my best to my clients, and even if things don’t work out, for whatever reason, I want to be able to leave any relationship with respect and dignity on both sides—a memory of me that says, “You know what, Janell is an awesome person to work with. Period.” I guess a “fear” is that that doesn’t happen.

What do you do to stay motivated when you feel like giving up?
First I pray and read my Bible. Second, I look to friends, family and mentors/coaches to gain understanding and to talk through my frustrations to find solutions. I also love to just step away and do things that I love, like running, being near some sort of water (beach, pool…lake), travelling or getting outside myself and giving to others.

I also think about the bigger picture: Why am I doing this? Why did I get into freelancing/entrepreneurship in the first place? What’s the longterm win that is greater than this short-term setback, challenge or annoyance?

What are your weakness in business and how have you worked pass them? 
Scaling and pacing would be a weakness. As a young professional and beginning entrepreneur, I can sometimes have a “right here, right NOW” attitude toward success or getting a goal accomplished. I have to remember to have patience and be strategic.

I’ve also been working on time management. I love being busy and I hate saying no to something that’s awesome and challenging, however I have to balance what I take on in order to do the best job for my clients.

What’s been most rewarding?
I feel I am doing what I’ve been led by God to do. It may sound a bit cliche but it’s the truth. I never thought I’d venture out on my own, and to be honest, I thought I’d have the same, well-paying job for the rest of my life and be comfortable with that.

I love the feeling of seeing another person’s success and having a hand in pushing that success forward. I love being the blessing. I have a passion for communications and the power of words to empower, inspire and ignite action in others. I just love helping others succeed in reaching their goals, especially women who look like me who are facing unique challenges in the job market and in business arenas.

Black women are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in the country, yet they still face challenges to getting funding, having their successes touted on a mainstream scale and sustaining growth of their business in a way that is competitive.

I find joy in helping to ensure that things are equalized a bit more, and that minority women and entrepreneurs reach their highest potential.

Who were you before you started your business?
A child of God. LOL! A working professional in the media industry. I’d spent more than a decade writing, editing and managing content in the areas of Career, Business, Entreprenuership and Global. I am still involved in those endeavors on a consulting and freelance basis.

If you had to do it again, what (if anything) would you do differently?
Nothing. I feel that I’ve made the mistakes and gain the experience needed for the stage of life and business leap I’ve taken. I think these things molded me to be able to better serve and to build the tenacity and determination I have today. The Janell of yesterday wasn’t ready and needed to learn some lessons to be the Janell of TheBossMoves.

What’s one good software or application you cannot live without?
This might sound a bit simple but all applications that are part of Google’s offerings are my faves, from search to email to calendar to Hangouts. I even have the Chromebook which has helped me in the early stages of going into entrepreneurship/freelancing. It’s lightweight and low-cost so I don’t feel as apprehensive about travelling with it (versus a MacBook). I also like Hootsuite, Bit.ly and other social media scheduling/management apps that I use for working with clients. ScheduleOnce is a great tool as well for managing calendar and meetings. I know you said one, but that was a challenge.

What’s your secret to cultivating a relationship between you and your customers?
Most important to me is adding value and building relationships with a foundation of service. I’m always thinking: Though I need to make a living on what I do, how can I serve? How can I make this NOT about me, but more about the person I’m working with and their goals? Successful people are loyal to people they like and can trust, and you can often build a long-lasting rapport and relationship by making people feel positive and great.

Consistent and clear communication are key as well. It’s good to set expectations and boundaries early and stick to what was agreed upon. Also, benefit of the doubt, flexibility and understanding are my best friends in business.

Where do you see your business in 5 years?
I plan to fully launch TheBossMoves Events and TheBossMoves Publishing, and start plans for TheBossMoves Ministries. I’d also like to train a team and employ them to take on the execution of social media management and brand consulting so that I can focus on expanding the three arms of my business aforementioned.

What are 3 tips you can share with budding and current entrepreneurs/business owners?

  1. Please pray. Ask God for guidance first and then act.
  2. Do your research on the industry/idea you have and a self assessment as well. Is it already out there? How are you different? How does what you offer stand in the marketplace? Are you truly passionate about offering this on a consistent basis? What does it look like? What does your audience/client base look like? How will you sustain yourself financially?. Check out Score.org or OTMcareers.com for guidance and worksheets to keep you accountable in building a business plan and other basics for getting started, and for resources to sustain your business growth if you are already in business.
  3. Get a mentor, even if on an informal, watch-from-afar basis. Try Meetups or masterminds. Look at your current network and see if there are any leaders who have great business acumen, discernment, leadership and professional relationship-building skills and talents. Build an authentic relationship that is more give and take, where you can be of service. You’ll need the support to staying accountable to your goals and in your scaling into business expansion.

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5 Tax Tips for Starting a Business

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Article republished with permission from JBP Accounting.

When you start a business, a key to your success is to know your tax obligations. You may not only need to know about income tax rules but also about payroll tax rules. Here are five tax tips that can help you get your business off to a good start.

1. Business Structure
An early choice you need to make is to decide on the type of structure for your business. The most common types are sole proprietor, partnership and corporation. The type of business you choose will determine which tax forms you will file.

2. Business Taxes 
There are four general types of business taxes. They are income tax, self-employment tax, employment tax and excise tax. In most cases, the types of tax your business pays depends on the type of business structure you set up. You may need to make estimated tax payments. If you do, use IRS Direct Pay to pay them. It’s a fast, easy and secure way to pay from your checking or savings account. Don’t hesitate to call if you need assistance or have any questions about IRS Direct Pay.

3. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
You may need to get an EIN for federal tax purposes. Call the office to find out if you need this number. If you do, help is available to make sure this process goes smoothly.

4. Accounting Method 
An accounting method is a set of rules that you use to determine when to report income and expenses. You must use a consistent method. The two that are most common are the cash and accrual methods. Under the cash method, you normally report income and deduct expenses in the year that you receive or pay them. Under the accrual method, you generally report income and deduct expenses in the year that you earn or incur them. This is true even if you get the income or pay the expense in a later year.

5. Employee Health Care
The Small Business Health Care Tax Credit helps small businesses and tax-exempt organizations pay for health care coverage they offer their employees. A small employer is eligible for the credit if it has fewer than 25 employees who work full-time, or a combination of full-time and part-time. The maximum credit is 50 percent of premiums paid for small business employers and 35 percent of premiums paid for small tax-exempt employers, such as charities.

The employer shared responsibility provisions of the Affordable Care Act affect employers employing at least a certain number of employees (generally 50 full-time employees or a combination of full-time and part-time employees). These employers’ are called applicable large employers. ALEs must either offer minimum essential coverage that is “affordable” and that provides “minimum value” to their full-time employees (and their dependents), or potentially make an employer shared responsibility payment to the IRS. The vast majority of employers will fall below the ALE threshold number of employees and, therefore, will not be subject to the employer shared responsibility provisions.

Employers also have information reporting responsibilities regarding minimum essential coverage they offer or provide to their full-time employees. Employers must send reports to employees and to the IRS on new forms the IRS created for this purpose.