My transition from the bumpy road of corporate employment to the smooth ride of working virtually!

My name is Kimberley, and I am DemGen’s Expert of the Month for May.

I think I should start with the confession that I have never written a blog post before, so I’m going to thank you in advance for your perseverance in making it to the bottom of Kimberley’s Blog Post # 1!

When I was asked to write a few posts for our site, I was given free reign and told to just talk about anything that seems relevant to me about any aspect of my life.  I took on the challenge knowing it would be easy-peasy.  Hey, everyone else is doing it, and I’ve read my share, that’s as good a blogging background as any, right?  Wrong.  Once I geared up with fingers resting on the keyboard, I sat there, stumped.  Not stumped that I had nothing to share, but stumped on what I could possibly say that was profound and interesting – that other people would actually want to know about me.  I felt that if this was my 15 minutes of fame…. I needed to make it count!

I never did come up with the answer to that, but this blogging experience did allow me to go back through my significant number of years as an employed person and reminisce about all of the different places I’ve worked, and all of the good, great, (and some of them bad & ugly) memories along the way.  Overall, as good as some of those memories may be….I realized that none of them even remotely compare to the amazing life I lead now.

I knew I wanted to share with you how working virtually has changed my life, as well as why I love working under the DemGen umbrella so much, and everything else awesome about DemGen that I can manage to squeeze into my May 2012 “Expert of the Month” stint.  (Gosh, I might need June as well – just kidding.)

So, I need to take you back a little bit, but before we go there, I want to fast-forward to 2012 to at least give you the “quick & dirty” of where I am now, and what I do.

1) I am a licensed (and part-time practicing) Broker in Real Estate, and

2) I work as an independent contractor for DemGen, offering Executive Support (virtually) to the DemGen Executive Team.

I support a few of the DemGen clients as required, and I am also the Project Manager for DemGen’s new niche-market, specializing in providing Assistance to the Real Estate Industry (Agents and Brokers).

The world of Real Estate is essentially, in my opinion, an entrepreneurial world as well.  My career with DemGen is a perfect blend of my more recent experience and background, and as I take you back to my earlier work experience, everything has come together in a perfect way.  Let me tell you, 10+ years ago, I would never have dared to dream my life would be where it is today.

My working life has taken the same initial path that many of you have taken, but a few years ago it took a major right turn and I have never looked back.  That right turn was choosing a path that I controlled, that I became the leader, the visionary and the beneficiary of.

The beautiful part, not only did I benefit, but so did those I love most, my children and family.  This path of entrepreneurship opened doors in a very deep and profound way, and I truly can say that I started to see the world very differently.  I really was starting to stop and smell the flowers.  Not that I didn’t see those flowers before, and “meant” to smell them…. but I didn’t have time so I added it to tomorrow’s “to do” list.  The problem was that I did this every day.

So, I’ve decided to just start writing about my own journey, and hope that something, even the smallest tiniest thing might resonate with you.  Maybe you’ll just laugh at something I’ve said, or smile because you can identify with something from my life, maybe you’re already on the fence of making a change and reading this can give you the strength to know it’s possible.  Anything and everything is possible, as long as you believe it deep within yourself.  No one else has to agree, as long as you “feel” it.

Now that I am rambling along well now, I will give you a bit of my background:

I probably got my first job at 15 years old, and for the most part have worked ever since.  I will be 47 this year… (boy, those two keys were so hard to press down right now), so that means I’ve been working in some way or another for almost 32 years.  And, yes, I include motherhood as my sole job for 20 of them, with my second job running alongside for the same 20.

I have worked in many industries, some in retail in my younger years, but mainly in office environments.   I really lucked into a job at a major Canadian Brewing Company, and I stayed there for 12 years moving my way up through the administrative ranks to Executive Assistant to the President (and Executive Team).   (Keep in mind I was also a single mother during this time).

I truly loved that job, when I got there.  But over those last several years there, my commute from Barrie to Etobicoke was getting longer, and longer.  And it was costing more.  My children were growing up and I needed to be home sooner, for more events, sports and commitments.  Everything I used to be able to balance easily was becoming more difficult, and not because of anything I changed.

Most of the changes were coming from external sources like increased traffic, the weather, higher gas prices and life seemed to become more complicated for some reason.  As much as technology was entering my life apparently to simplify it, for awhile there it seemed just the opposite.  Having 100 choices instead of 10 was great, but trying to understand all 100 of them alone was starting to become overwhelming.   Bring in call-waiting, gaming systems, satellite, 100’s of channels, internet… and on and on.  Somehow it seemed your usual productive hours a day were getting shorter and shorter.

Then, my rollercoaster of very quick life changes began to happen.  I became pregnant at 38 yrs old and (then – lol), got married.   I worked up until my 3rd son was born, and then began a maternity leave.   Along with the birth of my beautiful son, came a few more events out of my control and that began a fairly long journey of visits to all kinds of medical specialists, with many visits (including a few surgeries) to Sick Children’s Hospital, and “poof”, my lovely controlled life was no more.   (By the way, I can’t say enough about Sick Children’s Hospital and the miracles they perform there), hands down one of my charities of choice.

The company I worked for had also made a decision to close the location I was employed at, so my choices were to move downtown to Head Office, or take a package.  I took the package.

During my time off I decided to pursue my Real Estate License.  Once I attained that, (and after the mandatory apprenticing period of 2 years), I also attained my Broker’s Licence as well.   (I love to learn!)  When I returned to the work force it was in this new industry, and my focus was mainly on residential sales.  Somewhere along the line, I made another huge decision and decided to separate, dissolve my marriage and get back to being “me”.   I made that transition fairly quickly and without much, if any, financial backing.  I pretty much walked away, as freedom was worth every cent I did not fight over.  I was determined to make it on my own, as I always had.  I have done it before and I will do it again.  Not the most graceful divorce in the history of mankind, but it could have been worse I’m sure.

I handled all the paperwork myself, filing at the local city hall, and eventually emerged a single, and much happier lady.  Poor, of course, but with a sense of a new beginning.  I instantly felt much more authentic.   I had not planned, or had any vision in place whatsoever on how I was going to make it all work, but I took everything day-by-day, and step by step.  And you know what?  If you don’t look too far ahead, and just live in the moment, answers do come to you.   I had the support of family, and some really special friends … and I scaled back my Real Estate quite a bit.  It just wasn’t in the cards for me at that time to focus properly on clients, and I wasn’t willing to take the time required away from my kids with everything else going on in their lives.  I started to think about ways I could use my talents, my experience and put them to use in a way that allowed me to spend time at home, or at least locally.   I took every odd administrative job that I could, I helped people in the Real Estate Industry with casual admin, and I was lucky enough to land a few contractual deals from my previous company managing & planning some of their annual events, (which I managed for them while employed as well).

As time went on, I started to think about offering my services to “the world” virtually.   I had the skills, and I was sure there must be a lot of people out there needing support, but not being able to afford a full-time person.  And quite possibly, they might be working virtually as well, and not actually have a brick and mortar building to house staff in.   My plan was to head to the internet and start researching.  I put a few ads out and responses came in fairly quickly.  I am not saying they were all “good” or “qualified” responses, (especially when you are asked how tall you are instead of how many wpm you can type… LOL).   But, it was all good as I knew I was onto something.  And, as fate, karma, luck, the universe – whatever people may refer to great connections happening for no apparent reason – I happened along DemGen.

I read through their website, looked at their team profiles and read everything I could.  I knew this was the place for me.  It was perfect!  This was a company who was looking for me, and my unique talents.   Well, they weren’t exactly looking for me, but I felt something strong enough to zip up a resume and send it in.  The rest, as they say, is history.  I have been happily associated with DemGen for a year and a half now.  Not only to I make a living by doing what I am good at, but I have found a second family as well.  Everyone within DemGen is similar in certain ways (the basic good parts we like to find in people, like:  kindness, integrity, supportive, loving, genuine…. to name a few), and oh so different in others, like:  unique talents, backgrounds & experiences.  There are “experts” from such diverse fields (marketing, social media, administration, authors, lead generation, speakers, hospitality… and I am only scratching the surface), but I truly find it incredible to be part of such a dynamic and exciting team.  I love rubbing elbows with these talented people.  In fact, I am honoured.

So that is my walk to the path of working virtually.  I’ve never claimed to be a writer, so no apologies are necessary should you wake up with this still on your screen and keyboard marks on your face.

I do have a few more blog posts coming up this month, since I am “May’s Expert”, and I promise it will be shorter and lighter fare going forward.  I’m excited to dig up some of my favourite things (books, movies, quotes, deep thoughts, funny stuff) and I’m going to share them with you over the next couple of weeks.  By the end of the month, you will certainly know me better and be privy to the secret fact I am a sappy  marshmallow, who loves to laugh (at myself almost as much as at others) at my core.  The deeper the message, the more likely it is that I have it saved somewhere around here….   so, I better get looking.   Looking forward to my next post!  (I’m really getting into this!).

I had one last REALLY IMPORTANT tidbit to share … my true-love, knight in shining armour stumbled into my life quite unexpectedtly, almost 4 years ago.   I can truly say I now know what everyone talks and writes about.  We secretly eloped almost 2 years ago, and life is so darn good.  I love waking up each and every day, and sharing my life with this man.  🙂

Kimberley

© 2012 DemGen  All Rights Reserved.

As a hiker, I appreciate what nature has to offer in every season. I noticed that many trees had taken a toll this winter…

We’re all susceptible to uncontrollable circumstances, both with nature and in business.

So a couple of questions arise: Can you weather an unexpected storm? How deep and diverse are your business’ roots?

After the showers come the flowers, but first, you must be prepared. With the right systems in place, all storms and seasons are an opportunity! The rain brings growth, lightning inspires insights and thunder cracks us back onto track. (There’s a reason the saying when it rains, it pours is related to success in business…)

If your “why” isn’t clear, BIG and ever evolving – maybe it’s time to do some Spring-cleaning! Our Future Vision Map system connects you with business strategy experts, to provide you with additional insights and opportunities. The rest of our complementary services are designed to keep you on track with your ideal Future Vision for your business.

So far, 2012 has been as awesome as it has been enlightening for DemGen. Learning to dance in the rain has ensured our continued growth over the years.

To highlight some our recent blossoms:

• Check us out on our new green-themed website and social media!
• The Future Vision Map has been approved for Continuing Education credits.
• Our Expert Team continues to grow as we add people to our Talent Vault.

DemGen is a green company in all senses. Our support and systems encourage businesses to grow! By working virtually we reduce the environmental impact of doing business.

To your deep roots and growth!

Gary Evans
Chief Growth Officer
DemGen

Kris Murray is, “Living the dream!” Through her company Child Care Marketing Solutions, she has helped hundreds of early childhood business leaders and owners grow and prosper through unique strategies that work to attract and retain new customers.

We recently had the chance to chat with Kris about her work.

Please tell us about your business.

Child Care Marketing Solutions provides business coaching, training products, and consulting to child care center owners and managers. We help child care centers and preschools grow their enrollment and revenue, and receive a better return on their marketing investment and advertising dollars.

How did you get started in this industry?

As a marketer who happened to be a mom of young children, I noticed that child care center owners and managers really struggled with the business side of child care. These folks are mostly educators and caregivers, not “business thinkers”. When you find a problem and can effectively solve it for people, that’s a great basis for a successful business.

What challenges have you faced as an entrepreneur?

Like many entrepreneurs, I have many ideas and I love to start new things. The follow-through and completion of ideas, visions, and tasks is the tough part. The DemGen team members help me stay focused and also help me do a better job of optimizing everything we do at Child Care Marketing Solutions.

What’s been the most rewarding thing about being a business owner?

For me, the payoff is when one of my clients tells me how much more successful they are by using what I’ve taught them. I’ve had so many incredible success stories and I know we’ve helped create more stability in the child care industry, which is good for business owners, children, and parents. I am making a unique difference in the world, and that feels really good.

What have you done to increase revenue and achieve your goals?

We have doubled our revenue every year so far (knock on wood!). We do that by closely monitoring our various streams of revenue and having a strategic plan for how to grow each one. Each year we receive more clarity about our best target customer, and we create products and solutions that get results. And lots of testimonials and success stories – your clients can “toot your horn” far better than you can.

How do you manage your time?

That’s been a challenge, but I’m getting better at it! DemGen builds our team, and we’re starting to use online tools like Basecamp, Google Calendar, and TimeTrade to automate tasks and improve communication within the team.

How did you become an expert in this field?

I have a marketing background – that’s all I’ve ever done, for the past 24 years. In addition, many of my best strategies and ideas I’ve learned from Dan Kennedy, who I consider my marketing “guru.” If you’re not familiar with Dan, get his books and start reading.

What programs have helped you the most as an entrepreneur?

I attended Dan Kennedy’s Renegade Millionaire Retreat in 2006 and that was a turning point for me – the concepts laid the foundation for me to quit my day job and start my own coaching / information products business. I am currently in two mastermind programs – my mentors are Fabienne Frederickson and James Malinchak. I strongly believe in the power of the mastermind process and it’s one of the key things I’m doing to continue fast growth of my business.

How do you juggle mothering and running a business?

Of course, finding that balance can be challenging! I’m lucky to have an amazing, supportive husband who has always been willing to help with child care, homework, and even laundry! So that makes a huge difference. If you can carve out some hours to work after the kids are in bed, or in the wee hours of the morning, that will help you get things done and still be there for your kids when they get off the bus. I usually am at my laptop by 6:00 am so I get a lot done in the 2 hours before they wake up.

What tips can you offer those just getting started?

Be persistent – don’t give up. You’ve got to have a burning desire to make it work, or it probably won’t. Find a mentor and/or mastermind group of peers that can support you. Try to be very clear about the value you provide and what problems you solve for your ideal client or customer.

Have there been any challenges and/or benefits to being a woman entrepreneur?

I love my life right now. I absolutely love being a woman business owner and I think it’s a great model for my children. They already think very entrepreneurially. The challenges are many, but the benefits are huge. We can live wherever we want, so we are moving to a small ski town in Colorado. Life is good.

To learn more about Kris Murray or Child Care Marketing Solutions, please visit: www.childcare-marketing.com

When I was a kid, 99% of Moms stayed home and raised their children. Today, we live in a completely different society. With the high cost of living, both parents have to work in order to keep food on the table and the bills paid.

I have a 1 year old son and I cannot imagine leaving him with a stranger every day in order to go to work. However, you need to provide for your children so you do what you have to do. I am blessed to work in a “Virtual Environment,” (the office of the future). This way I get to provide for my family and raise my son at the same time. I know that I need to be there for my family every step of the way so that is what I am doing.

There are so many benefits to working from home, and every time I tell someone what I do they say “you’re so lucky”. I agree with them 100%. I am grateful everyday for the opportunity to raise my son and work at my business all at the same time. I feel great when I wake up every morning and start the day; I make my husband’s lunch, feed my little man and fire up my lap top. I am at the office as soon as I wake up. No stress, no commuting, and a big smile. I am ready to put together a sales presentation or write a blog post before most people have even left for work!

The most amazing part is that I work for a company where we help other businesses grow. We help business owners free up time in their lives so they can concentrate on what is most important to them (personal/family time). I can put in an abundant amount of work time, much more than if I worked in an “actual” office. If I was to work in an office and something happened with my son at daycare or I got sick, I would have to leave/miss work and catch up the next day. This would add a huge amount of stress to myself, my co-workers, and my family, and put a hold on whatever I was currently working on. Being at home I can handle anything and EVERYTHING that comes up, I am already at the office. Even on sick days I can still manage to get what needs to be done, DONE!

They say that a happy employee is a productive employee! I will second that 1 million times. The reason for that is in today’s day and age I can work from anywhere. We have a place on the lake that we go to every weekend in the summer, but guess what? Yes, that’s right, we have Wi-FI! I can stay up there all summer if I want to. I take lunch breaks and go swimming. I come back to my “office” with a huge smile on my face, more than ready to work. How would you like a person that is happy, stress free and motivated working for you? The main advantage to working in a “Virtual Environment” is being able to have a whole team of dedicated and motivated individuals working for you, to help grow and expand your business.

If you are trying to start a business or grow your current business, then a virtual team is the way to go. You can be even MORE successful than you are now, and know that whatever comes up; you have not just one person behind you, but a whole team of experts. Take it from me. Even after my busiest day of sales presentations, conference calls, and looking after my son I am more than proud of everything I accomplished that day. Everyone should feel like that after a hard day at “the office’. In a dream world we would all feel that great about what we do for a living. Anything is possible. All you have to do is make the right decisions, and believe!

Louise Jackson

© Copyright 2012  All rights reserved.

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Two recent articles – two sides of the same coin.  Can anyone be an entrepreneur?

They can, but can they become a good one – a great one? The other side saying there is no way everyone can be an entrepreneur. The job is too demanding and much too time consuming.

These are valid points but the fact is, not everyone wants to be an entrepreneur. To many, the thought is terrifying. The lack of what they see as security, routine and “normality” would have them running in the opposite direction as fast as they could.

But for those who have a mindset that is just a little bit different, who are just slightly more independent, that thought is there, in the background. The sense of satisfaction and empowerment they would feel if working on their own, fuels their dreams and while they may never take that “big” step and start their own business, they still will be found working just a little bit differently than the average person.

What traits and qualities will help you to succeed as an entrepreneur? Look around at those who have built a thriving business for themselves and you’ll often find most if not all of the qualities below.

People skills.  The ability to connect not so much with large groups or as a speaker but one on one in a professional, well spoken way.People appreciate your putting your full attention on them and interacting in such a way that they know you have been listening.

Originality. But not to the point that you turn people off – this can come across as flaky. You want your small business to work well with other businesses of various sizes and there are times when the ability to fit in is very important.

Confidence. Being confident in yourself and your abilities can bring you a long way. Confidence means you can stand your ground in a diplomatic way. You’re not afraid to have to disagree sometimes but you are also able to concede a point. Be able to agree to disagree.

Having control of your emotions and behaviour.  Always. Losing your temper or being  impatient shows a lack of ability to cope. Always remember that there could be someone watching or listening that could help you build your business. If you’re having one of those days where the wrong word could send you over the edge, keep your socializing or contact with others to a minimum. Sometimes silence really is golden.

Be comfortable with yourself. The best business people know their shortcomings and also what they excel at. They’ve learned to relax into their personality, their habits, their creativity and their lifestyle. One thing that is noticeable is that they are always well dressed. Not business suit attire but pulled together. After all, you never know when you may come across a potential contact!

Many of us think we could become great entrepreneurs!  But there are those of us who are best with routine and reliability. When working outside of this, we feel that we aren’t in control of our lives and live with the nagging feeling that there are things that could go wrong at anytime. The steady nine to five position works best for some. It makes them happy and we need people like this.

The long hours and self induced solitude that can come with entrepreneurship won’t work for everyone.  We all have our own very interesting abilities and some of us are just meant to take that different road which leads to running our own business, that road less travelled. To us, it isn’t work at all!

© Copyright 2012  All rights reserved.

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image courtesy of  the_tahoe_guy

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