Real You Incorporated

Anybody Going to the NAR's Mid-Year Conference?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 14 May 2009 08:46:26 -0500

Are any of you going to the NAR's Mid-Year Conference? If so, I'll see you there. I will be presenting "Putting the Real You in Your Business" at the Women's Council of Realtors' education session on Friday, May 15 at the Capital Hilton in Washington DC.

My presentation will focus on branding with personality and speaking to your No. 1 customer. If you're planning on attending Mid-Year, I would love for you to stop by my session so I can meet you!

It's never too late to tell you about trends, is it?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 07:34:17 -0500

Ok, here's a funny story. My friend Stefan Swanepoel is THE real estate trends guy. He publishes a well-researched, well-read Trends Report each year and the industry folks who are smart, read it. I realize it's April, and first quarter is over, BUT I am finally reading the report! In my defense, for some unknown reason, it took two months to arrive from California to my mailbox in Ohio. (Yes, even reports don't want to visit Ohio if they're from Laguna Nigel.) But enough excuses. I learned a lot, and here are the trends that resonated with me:

1. Real estate is in the "transformation years", and those years will continue until 2012 (yikes!)

2. Social media is a real estate agent and company's friend! (yay!)

I'm not going to dwell on the negatives surrounding point 1 above, as I'm sure if you live in a home or know someone who does you've heard just about enough even if you aren't a real estate agent. But point 2 is exciting! As Stefan writes, "some 530 million individuals are now participating in some sort of social networking . . .and each person on average belongs to two or three social networks."

That's huge, in my industry and yours. If you aren't out there blogging and tweeting about your expertise in a meaningful and helpful manner-as a real estate agent it is your local market knowledge and your niche knowledge-you're missing out on customers. As Stefan writes: "Real estate professionals have an excellent opportunity to take advantage of this emerging trend by influencing others through creating meaningful content and releasing it through blogs, online communities, wikis and social networks....only 18 percent of online Americans actually create content or publish an article or blog at least once a month."

So get out there and get writing. You are an expert in your field, and you have something your tribe wants to read about. Write it, and they will follow!

No Light? No Trouble?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:52:51 -0500

Yesterday at lunch I was enjoying a great sandwich at Camille's Sidewalk Cafe when I looked up and saw this sign on the wall next to my booth:

Green -> Normal
Red -> Alarm
NoLight -> Trouble

It made me think. Do we too often ignore the signs right in front of us in business? I know, speaking for the real estate industry, we were in a state of greed and denial before the bust. The government's goal was to increase home ownership rates; the mortgage companies made money easy to get; the number of real estate agents had reached record numbers nationwide; and everybody who was anybody had a no-miss real estate opportunity. In February of 2006, the chief economist for the National Association of Realtors released a book: Why the Real Estate Boom Will Not Bust. The bust had started in the fourth quarter of 2005. The green light had gone out long before.

Real change does come through struggle. Don't wait for the red light to go on to make changes in your business. By then, it may be too late.

Are you inspired? Feeling good? In control? If not, take action.

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:33:10 -0600

If you're not feeling happy, why not? Here are your options: you can lament increasing unemployment, a shaking economy, a cold winter, a New Year's resolution not met, a kids' bad report card, a gray sky, and any number of other depressing mid-winter realities. Or, you can change your mindset. You can decide to live a positive, optimistic life. That doesn't mean Pollyanna or rose-colored glasses. That means you are in charge, and at the center of your life. You are standing in your power with confidence over the things you can change - and with acceptance of the things you cannot.

Fearful about losing your job? You aren't alone. In Ohio, where I live, our state just reached 7.8 percent unemployment, a number not seen since in decades. It's scary. But it's not immobilizing. You cannot be the one who sits frozen with fear. Those are the folks who go down with the ship. This is a time for action. To decide what it is that you, the Real You, wants to do, and who you want to be. Perhaps it is the time to start the business of your dreams, on the side for now, as you wait to see what happens where you are. Or maybe, instead of waiting for something to happen to you, you'll make a plan and take action for yourself.

Perhaps in this time of great uncertainty you'll step into the center of your life and take charge. Sometimes, when the going gets tough, the tough start their own businesses. As odd as it may seem, now probably is one of the best times in history to go for it. Back in the recession of 1991, there were record numbers of people starting businesses. In fact, in the last two recessions, 77 percent of the net new jobs created in the country were created by micro enterprises - businesses with five or fewer employees, according to Women's Economic Ventures in Santa Barbara, California.

It's OK to start small. If you dream of becoming your own boss, and you are passionate about what you want to do, now may be the perfect time to turn a hobby into a business. There is a concept that originated in the Great Depression called the "lipstick factor " - that people will still indulge in small luxury items such as cosmetics while they cut back on big luxury purchases. In fact, employment rose in the cosmetics industry during the last two recessions, even as it fell in all other segments. And of course, there is always a need for the other basics: food, babysitting, household products, green anything and the like.

Inspired? I hope so. Instead of feeling out of control, start dreaming. Look around at the marketplace and see if you could fit into it with your own business. I know, many small businesses fail, but many others succeed. And hey, if you can make it in this economy, just imagine what will happen when happy days are finally here again.

Tweeps & Business Pages vs. Networking Parties & Business Cards

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:25:14 -0600

Are you feeling the pressures of networking through social media but don't really know what that means, let alone how to do it? If so, you are not alone. Just be honest about it.

I love it when people are honest. It’s great to be able to admit both your strengths—and your weaknesses! And learning to incorporate social media into your business’ marketing plan in the New Year is a great step. If you entered the business world before the Internet, you know and feel the dramatic changes that are occurring almost daily. Every industry is facing these changes and the challenges and opportunities that technology brings.

The key to social networking is to apply it to your business in a genuine fashion. Women are natural social networkers. We always have been. We build and maintain communities across the country through volunteerism. I don’t know about you, but when I look at my kids’ schools, the volunteer ranks are full of women. Still. That’s social networking in the real world.

It’s no different online. What I recommend is to start networking online on a business-specific, direct connection site like LinkedIn . I like LinkedIn because everyone on it is there to make business connections. So start there. And then, invite your contacts to join you. I believe this is the future of networking and the future of powering your business. You and your computer and an Internet connection are unstoppable. So don’t be afraid. Start small. But think big.

If you want to take it a step further and join Twitter, check out ReachingWomenDaily.com for another post about marketing your business on Twitter and feel free to follow me!

Kiva.org- Helping entrepreneurs in the developing world “go for it” $25 at a time

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 12:17:02 -0600

Recently I learned about Kiva.org, an amazing micro-lending Web site for the working poor. Kiva’s mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty. It’s an opportunity for people like you and me to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world. These are real individuals in need of funding. Despite their current circumstances, they’ve decided to “go for it,” because they know they can—and they will. Get involved, and you will be helping a real person make strides towards economic independence.

Amaka Okpara, 23, married with one child, lives in Lagos State, Nigeria, where she makes bags that she designs herself. While she is happy because the demand for her bags increases during this festive time of the year, she needs money to purchase materials. Through Kiva.org, she is requesting a loan of $1,200.00 that she plans to repay in eight months. But Amaka is not alone in her quest. In the Shartuz District of Tajikistan, Dilbar Asadova needs money to purchase additional inventory for her small, rural market where she sells food, clothing and personal products. Before starting her business in 2000, Dilbar was a housewife, but after her husband died she needed a way to support their four children. Her goal is to grow the business so that she is the biggest market in town.

These are just a few of the examples of women who have decided to “go for it” as entrepreneurs. In spite of the fact that they live in poor conditions, lack education and the necessary capital, they have found a way to grow their businesses through Kiva.org.

You, too, can help. I’ve decided to donate 20 percent of my book sales to Kiva.org. When you purchase a copy of Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs from the Real You Incorporated site between now and Jan. 2, 2009, you’ll also be helping women entrepreneurs like Amaka and Dilbar.

Articles and Images Provide Inspiration

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:09:44 -0600

Subscribing to magazines is a great way to inspire new ideas. Begin by visiting your local newsstand or bookstore and start browsing. If you find some you really enjoy then purchase them. At home you will be able to sit down and really see what is out there. You can also get online and find out what’s happening in business, fashion, home living, parenting and more. Try sites like Glam.com and iVillage.com. With a computer at your fingertips, nothing can stop you from accessing great articles, image and features that will inspire you and help you grow. The possibilities are endless!

There are several magazines—both print and online—that appeal to me. I make every effort to subscribe to those publications that speak to my heart. Some are business related, while others address family and the personal side of my life. Often, a good read is all I need to get inspired. Pink magazine is a personal favorite of mine, with its tagline--a beautiful career; a beautiful life. It emphasizes the fact that my personal life and my business life are not separate; in fact, they are intertwined. And that’s how I keep it real—by refusing to differentiate the two. Instead, I focus on my passions and my goals.

In addition to the many great magazines and Web sites you’ll find online and at the newsstand, you can also be inspired by our stories of women entrepreneurs who are putting the real you in their lives!

What magazines do you enjoy? Where do you draw inspiration from?

It's Never Too Late for a Fresh Start

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:13:25 -0600

Maybe your business needs to be re-energized, or you need to refocus your vision for the company of your dreams. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources that can guide you through the process. But first, you have to know what you want and where you're going. Create a vision statement!

A vision statement, or road map for your brand, is basically a game plan. In one or two sentences, you can define your goals in a way that everybody understands and embraces. Determine a few words that embody what your business is about. I call them essence words, and they can help you craft a clear, well-defined vision statement. After that's accomplished, get started on a business plan!

Check out Life Lesson Nine in Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs for a strategy map and RealYouIncorporated.com for vision boards.

Communicate with Style

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:28:27 -0600

If you're tired of sending traditional e-mail messages, consider a more interesting way of conveying your communications. From branded cows to Big Boy restaurant signs, the Web site RedKid.net provides an array of fun images that can be customized with your own words. Here are some examples of how you can get your point across...

Try it for yourself at RedKid.net.

How Colors Can Help Determine Your Personality

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:58:38 -0500

I recently stumbled across a great personality test from the company, Neenah Paper. This isn't your typical personality test. In fact, there are no multiple choice questions involved. This test helps you gauge your personality through the use of colors. Try it for yourself and post which color corresponds with your personality!

Which of these three colors do you prefer? Yellow, Blue or Red?

If you prefer yellow, this is a more accurate description of your personality:

"Finding common ground is the game you play best. You calm troubled situations and bridge differences. Your awareness of others' perspectives and points of view is a very powerful tool. It enables you to express contrary, unpopular feelings without offending anyone. People feel they know where they stand with you, and are willing to let you help them. And consequently, you are happy when you're able to give of yourself. By keeping people listening, you establish a forum for solutions and possibilities to unfold.

If you prefer blue, this is a more accurate description of your personality:

"You are a dreamer and a visionary-wistful, imaginative and eccentric. You're preoccupied with the future. Your dreams give you the mental discipline to concentrate and stay on track. You need to justify your life by having a positive influence on the world, even on those you don't know. Your ability to prioritize helps you to be proactive. Blues can fix things before they are broken! Thinking about the future energizes you-putting forth your ideas and reshaping the world are keys to your happiness."

If you prefer the color red, this is a more accurate description of your personality:

"You know exactly what you want. Money, power and status give you a sense of security, but ultimately you see them as a means of expression. This is your primary goal. You're not one to hoard your wealth. On the contrary, you would give up almost anything for those you're concerned about. You are ambitious, driven, confident and outgoing. You don't want to remake the world in your image, you just want to be in charge of fixing things. Conversely, you have little tolerance for inefficiencies. Your practical approach allows you to evaluate things and the people around you-helping others to recognize the reality of a situation."

This is just the beginning of the test. Once you pick a primary color, you choose secondary colors to complement it, then even more colors to help hone in on your true personality. It's a fairly extensive test with surprisingly accurate results. If you have the chance, try it for yourself. The more you understand yourself, the better you'll understand how you communicate with others. In real estate, it's imperative to know how you communicate, so you can better meet the needs of the consumer, develop your personal brand and determine your competitive advantage!

Spouse and Business Partner: The Keys to Success

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:49:51 -0500

Allow your strengths to shine, set boundaries and find a balance that works for you and your family. This is my best advice for those brave souls that choose to share the same work setting with their spouse.

I have been working with my husband, Harley Rouda Jr., at Real Living for the past 12 years and it has been an increasingly rewarding experience. Harley and I complement each other with our strengths, but we don't always agree. We make it work by defining our roles. Determine from the get-go who has the final say on decisions and who's responsible for various functions in the company. That's a must. Then there's the issue of financial and emotional risk. When you're both involved, that obviously increases. But there's an awesome tradeoff that you simply can't ignore: When everything is running smoothly, it's doubly rewarding-and you'll be able to enjoy that together.

Check out my recent podcast episode with Harley, "Working with Your Spouse," by subscribing to the Real You Incorporated podcast on iTunes.

Is Small the New Big?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:12:55 -0500

If you’re looking for new marketing inspiration, I highly recommend the book, Small is the New Big: and 183 Other Riffs, Rants, and Remarkable Business Ideas by Seth Godin. Godin’s ideas can stimulate creativity and open your eyes to change, but, this really isn’t your typical business book. There’s even a disclaimer found on the book’s sleeve that states:

“WARNING: If you want a narrative and lots of research, you’re in the wrong place. But I’m betting you don’t need another dense business book. What you need is a small prod or perhaps a friendly whack. And maybe a few ideas you can really run with. Have fun.”

If “Jobs for Purple Cows” and a “McDonald’s Cocktail Party” seem like intriguing or puzzling topics to you, then go pick up Godin’s book and have fun in a world of ideas and inspiration that will cause your brain to approach marketing in a new way.

Beat My Score!

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:23:54 -0500

Take the following quiz that tests your knowledge on eco-preservation. Post a comment with your score.

1. Which of the following light bulbs is the most energy efficient?

    A. Compact Flourescent
    B. Incandescent
    C. Halogen

2. How long does it take carbon dioxide to disperse in the atmosphere?

50 years
75 years
100 years
150 years

3. Which of the following items lasts in the environment the longest?

Glass
Plastic
Leather
Disposable Diapers

4. What percent of global energy comes from non-renewable resources?

5. How many miles will the average American drive in their lifetime?

45,078 miles
298,207 miles
452,662 miles
627,000 miles

*Answers found at the bottom of the blog post

What was your score? Three out of five? Four out of five? Well if you scored higher than one out of five, you beat my score. I don't claim to be up on all the latest numbers, but I do work hard to recycle and keep my car emissions to a minimum.

Basically, everybody can stand to learn a little about the environment and the ways in which we can reduce carbon footprints. If you are passionate about incorporating and promoting environmental practices in real estate, consider becoming EcoBroker certified. In a competitive market, this is one certification that sets you apart from the rest. Real Living understands the growing market for eco-friendly real estate, so we offer our agents the opportunity to earn an EcoBroker designation through Real Living's Real University. By becoming an EcoBroker, you'll learn how to better address environmental issues such as:

              • Radon, asbestos, lead and mold
               • Finding sustainable energy options such as Energy Star®
               • How to increase resale value through eco-friendly adaptations

It's worth checking out!

*Answers: 1. A, 2. C, 3. A, 4. D, 5. D.

Online Video as a Marketing Tool

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 08:50:05 -0500

Do you watch YouTube? What about streaming video from television Web sites like NBC or MTV? If you're like many Americans, online video has become a convenient way to watch breaking news, access sports events or catch up on your favorite prime-time television shows. In fact, "Business Week" recently ran an article that states, "In the first 12 days of the Beijing Olympics, users of NBC's Web site had watched more than 56 million video streams-- more than the combined total for the previous two Olympiads-Torino, Italy, in 2006; and Athens, Greece, in 2004."

Have you implemented online video into your marketing plan? If you haven't, consider using video to bring your brand to life. Don't do it in the traditional sense: all about you. Instead, shoot a video about your brand and what it makes your customers feel like. Today's consumers want to get to know you and your brand. They want a real, personal connection. Video is a great way to translate your philosophy and brand online. Post it on your site, and then post it on YouTube. Send it by e-mail to new prospects. Think of video as a chance to invite them into your office, virtually.

Real Living offers agents the opportunity to create their own professional, authentic and compelling videos of themselves, their listings or their area of expertise through "Real Living Stories." Online video is becoming an increasingly popular medium through which consumers are reached, so utilize this tool and keep experimenting with different methods of communicating your message.

Your Business, Your Brand, Your Culture

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 08:08:32 -0500

If you happen to be in Columbus, Ohio, on Oct. 9, I'll be presenting "Putting the Real You in Your Business" at the National Association of Women Business Owners luncheon.

I'll be sharing insights on:

Establishing a successful brand for yourself
Putting yourself at the center of your business
Giving your company a competitive advantage
Building a great company culture
Creating lifetime relationships with your clients

The meeting will be held from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Smith and Wollensky at Easton Town Center. For more information and to RSVP, visit NAWBO Columbus. I hope to see you there!

Is Your Workspace a Reflection of You?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:58:01 -0500

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2007 the average American worked 42.9 hours a week. Over the course of a year, this added up to approximately 2230 hours, which is about 92 weeks straight. If you're spending this much time in your office, wouldn't it make sense to create a comfortable work atmosphere that allows you to display your creativity and express your inner passions?

Create an office that reflects the real you by addressing the needs of your five senses. Start with color. When painting or furnishing your office, choose colors that exhibit your personality. For example, those who consider themselves to be imaginative, idealistic, a visionary and somewhat eccentric at times may be drawn to the color blue. You may also want to surround yourself with visual reminders of your hobbies and passions such as pictures, mementos and other personalized décor.

Next, stimulate your sense of smell with a favorite scented candle or air freshener-lavender, sandalwood and vanilla are great stress-relieving scents. When it comes to taste, keep a container of mints, chocolates or hard candy in your office. The M&M's Web site gives consumers the option of customizing and ordering candy by color and with a personalized message on the shell. If you choose to go with candy, make sure you choose a flavor that exhibits an aspect of your personality.

Whether you like Beethoven or the Beach Boys, choose some tunes that reflect your taste in music. Play this when you're working, or program it into your office phone ring tone. There are some great desk clocks that double as iPod docks on the market right now. Turn on your favorite iPod playlist or listen to some soothing sounds of nature

Lastly, make sure you address the importance of touch. From your chair to the flooring, it's important to feel comfortable in your workspace. Pick a stylish desk chair that supports your back and adds personalized flair to the room. Your desk should be spacious and ergonomic. After all, if you're like the average American, you're spending quite a bit of time at your desk. For more information about how you can make your office a reflection of the Real You through the use of your five senses, check out Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs or access RealYouIncorporated.com.

Customers Know You're Faking It

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 09:56:35 -0500

Let's face it. You know a fake when you see one - a fake designer purse, an artificial flower, a false friend. You know when a company isn't what it seems. They may get you the first time, but you won't be back. It's crucial that you never fake it because your customers will find out. Be true to yourself, and understand enough about your customers to convey your true worth to them at every transaction point.

Consumers are a lot smarter than we think. Duane E. Knapp of, The Brand Mindset: How Companies like Starbucks, Whirlpool, and Hallmark Became Genuine Brands and Other Secrets of Branding Success, understands the importance of marketing to an intelligent consumer looking for a genuine brand. In his book he states, "Genuine brands make a promise, and they deliver on that promise consistently, eagerly, and at the customer's convenience."

Do you consistently pull through on promises you make to your clients? Honesty helps build a strong personal brand. When you make promises you can't keep, you quickly diminish the credibility of your personal brand both at work and at home. Consumers are becoming more aware of insincere marketing gimmicks and advertising. They appreciate and are more likely to give referrals to genuine brands that they can trust and respect. Do you deserve customer loyalty?

Do You Wordle?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:39:20 -0500

I recently stumbled upon a great new visual tool to accompany a blog - Wordle. Wordle is a fun Web site that allows you to paste the text from a blog post into a box that then scrambles the key words into a fun visual blog.

The following image is an assortment of words I used in a recent eBrand Marketing blog. If you haven't tried Wordle, click here to experiment with the text.

What is 2” by 3 ½”, contains a logo and is vital to you and your business’s success?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:24:19 -0500

... a business card. With card in hand and a simple genuine conversation between you and a stranger, your business could become a nationally recognized brand.

In the profession of sales, you need to be comfortable asking for business. If approaching people is difficult, try practicing. Write it out, talk to a mirror, video tape yourself, whatever works for you. Remember, people respond best to authentic conversation. Walking up to someone on the street and just handing them your card doesn't work. Ending a casual conversation with "lets keep in touch" or "if you need anything, here's my card" works well.

At a networking event, chances are you'll talk about your business and you need to have your elevator pitch ready. The key to the pitch is being able to articulate, in a short sentence or two, your name, company name, product and how and where you can be contacted. Followed by your business card, this quick pitch is your one chance to make a great first impression. Make it memorable!

With thousands of ways to design a business card, do you visually express your personal brand?

To learn more about building a business network, check out Life Lesson 19 in Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs

For more information on business cards, check out The New York Times Business Card Basics

The Power of the Purse in Real Estate

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 10:29:59 -0500

Real Living has been marketing to women for 7 years now! In fact, Real Living was the first women-focused brand in real estate. Why market to women?

Women make or influence 91% of all home buying decisions.
Women guide 94% of all home-furnishing purchases.
Two-thirds of real estate agents are women.
78% of engaged women say that while they already have furniture, they'll replace most or all of it when they marry.

This being said, I presented at the national Marketing to Women (M2W) conference in May about the tremendous purchasing power women hold in this country, but more specifically in real estate. It was a great learning experience! The M2W conference attracts brands from across the country that understand the influence women have as consumers.

M2W asked Real Living to put together a video highlighting more great statistics on the purchasing power of women. It's now featured on the M2W site. Click here to view the video!

Is a Culture Vulture Bringing Down Your Team?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 11:17:42 -0500

You've probably met this person at one time or another. They're the employee that isn't on board. The one causing friction among your staff and bringing down team morale. I have a name for people who sabotage businesses -- culture vultures! And my best advice is to get rid of this person as soon as you can. If that's not possible, then pay close attention to what's going on, and trust your instincts. In other words, your perceptions of this person are probably right. In the meantime, take comfort in the fact that culture vultures usually destroy themselves. Truth prevails, but it doesn't typically happen as fast you'd like. Get help in the form of a business consultant, a person who will work with you to plan a strategy that ensures that every member of your team is on the same page. Is your team being brought down by a culture vulture? Share your experiences! You can learn more about how to avoid culture vultures in Life Lesson Fifteen of Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs.

Technorati Profile

The Almighty Power of Networking

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:26:52 -0500

Networking is not just important, it's absolutely necessary. In whatever stage of the game you're at - whether you own a company or you're working for someone else - networking with other individuals is essential because you never know who can help you move up or help you move on.

Here are my suggestions:

•· Get over being intimidated. Leaving your comfort zone is never easy, but you can practice at home by role-playing what you'll say when you meet people. Get your elevator pitch down.

•· Go with a friend. If you know someone who's really involved in a group or organization, tag along. She'll be sure to introduce you to her circle.

•· Always be on the lookout for networking opportunities. It might happen the next time you're in the cafeteria. Introduce yourself to that person from another department-the one you see occasionally-but neither of you ever speak.

•· And don't fret; it gets easier!

If you're interested in networking with other women online, check out the share forum on RealYouIncorporated.com. It's a great way to get started. We'd love to hear from you!

Greetings from Austin!

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:00:30 -0500

This Saturday, August 9, I will be presenting at the Balance Expo for Women in Austin, Texas. I would love for those that live in the Austin area to come enjoy a day of fun-filled activities, informational speakers and networking. I will take stage at 2:15 p.m. with a presentation about "Putting the Real You in Your Business." For more information, check out the Balance Expo for Women Web site. I hope to see you there!

Building Your Team

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:01:53 -0500

How can you build a successful, cohesive team? Team building isn't always cut and dry, so here are some suggestions to help you bring the right employees into your culture.

Try to achieve a balance of personalities. Know that it's important to hire individuals with varying personalities as long as your employees are true, real and reliable

When interviewing a prospective employee, communicate the culture of your business. As a result, the candidate can decide whether or not they see themselves as a fit. Make sure you also put a word about your culture in the job description. During the interview, ask the candidate to talk about themselves. What are their passions? What activities are they involved in? Be sure that other members of your company are present during the interview process. This gives the team ownership of the hire.

Once you've selected a good candidate, get a background check on them. Call their references, previous employers and others that might know them. Companies don't typically wish a bad employee on another company, so you'll usually receive fair and honest responses.

Lastly, consider a remote addition to the team. Outsourcing is a great opportunity for those businesses that are either tight on money or short on time. Don't neglect this possibility as you continue to grow your team and your business.

If done correctly, team building can be a positive process that benefits your corporate culture. Real Living strives to build successful teams in every area of our business. For more information on this topic, check out pp. 131-133 of Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs.

What is a Snark?

Kaira Sturdivant Rouda (Real Living) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 10:02:20 -0500

Many of us have been snarked-and didn't know it at the time. Oblivious to the fact that negative influencers are out to snatch our power, we may be innocent victims of snarkdom at many times in our lives. How about you? Has a snark attempted to crush your dreams?

From the worst types-ego snarks, sexist snarks and user or con-artist snarks-to just plain annoying types-people-pleasing/social-climbing snarks, complainer snarks and bubble-bursting snarks-they are everywhere. In your office, at the store and even in your family.

If you have snarks in your life, you may need to focus on silencing them. How do you accomplish this? By being the real you! Being okay with yourself, retaining your power and harnessing your potential are imperative to combating all types of snarks, whether you encounter an ego snark, complainer snark, or bubble busting snark.

Snarks prey on other people because they aren't comfortable with their own abilities. They tend to form parasitic relationships to bring others down for their momentary self-promotion. Don't let yourself become susceptible to snark attacks from others. For example, when a complainer snark starts in on a rant, change the subject to something positive. Once you do this a few times, they'll get the hint that their complaining isn't welcome. Stand strong and make sure you maintain a positive disposition.

On the flip side of things, do you ever catch yourself acting snarky? Sure, it happens to everybody once in a while, but you want to make sure it doesn't become a permanent part of your character. By being real and being you, you'll be sure to steer clear of snarkiness.

For more information on snarks, check out snarkinfestedwaters.com.