Robust Reading

I have made it to the Pacific NW and what a welcoming relief!  The flight, comfortable.  The people, warm. The scenery, breathtaking.  I am very much looking forward to retracing steps and experiences I once overlooked in my youth.  The PNW has so much to offer and I am feeling a wealth of inspiration! 

Let me tell you about two books that I picked up at Half Price Books a few days ago and have since enjoyed.

Amazon; used from $1.90

(1)    Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn WithoutBlowing It by Peggy Klaus

“It is well-documented that working hard isn't enough to keep your professional star rising: Self-promotion is recognized as one of the most important attributes for getting ahead. But learning to share your talents and successes without coming across as smug or rehearsed is a tricky skill. Now, Peggy Klaus, top communication and leadership coach, has developed a program that will teach anyone to brag - and get away with it. Filled with practical examples of ways in which people in various work-life stages can promote themselves, Klaus teaches readers to communicate strengths and accomplishments without appearing too opportunistic, eager, egotistical or self-aggrandizing. Now anyone can communicate with style and substance - in any situation - and walk away shining like the star they are!”--Amazon

Synopsis:  provides creative and tactical narrative content, pinpoints direct solutions for specific scenarios in the workplace, interactive and engaging, constructive conversation mapping, empowering, confidence-boosting material through and through.

Amazon; used from $0.01

(2)    Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office 101:Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers by Lois P. Frankel,Ph.D.  

“Dr. Lois Frankel reveals why some women roar ahead in their careers while others stagnate. She's spotted a unique set of behaviors--101 in all--that women learn in girlhood that sabotage them as adults. Now, in this groundbreaking guide, she helps you eliminate these unconscious mistakes that could be holding you back--and offers invaluable coaching tips you can easily incorporate into your social and business skills. If you recognize and change the behaviors that say "girl" not "woman", the results will pay off in career opportunities you never thought possible--and in an image that identifies you as someone with the power and know-how to occupy the corner office.” --Amazon

Synopsis: coaching strategies to avoid missed opportunities, critical analysis of inherent and detrimental behaviors of women in the workforce, identification of specific areas for improvement and criticisms to make change, no bullshit self-help book on steroids

What better season for self-improvement then the beautiful months of summer?

Make the most of today!

Dreamer

Relax.  All will fall into place.  Have patience in yourself and those around you.  

Enjoy the day.  Have confidence in yourself and your incredible abilities!

Warm

Oh hey there, Starbucks Salted Carmel Mocha, you naughty little devil!  I had the pleasure of sipping a cup of this goodness while commuting on a business a few weeks ago and it quickly turned around my attitude.  What a tasty, delightful treat!

Consider yourself warned, this beverage has the potential to put a huge smile on your face for no reason at all.

So, if you are looking for a seasonal and indulgent treat--look no further than the Starbucks Salted Carmel Mocha.  Plus, everyone knows after the 20th cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season, you are looking for alternatives.  Try something new!

Brandwashing

  

A fascinating article in Fast Company was released earlier this month examines the length some well-known companies go to "prime" their patrons for purchase. 

The article specifically highlights Whole Foods' promotional strategy.  What may seem like originally crafted chalk boards next to produce section are actually mass-produced and designed by their corporate office, located in Texas.  How about the watermelons that haven't been unpacked from original boxes they arrived in?  Well, they could have easily directed an employee to unpack the fruit, but what's the point?  They're trying to create perception that the customer is getting their produce "straight from the farm" fresh; adding value to their purchase.  

Perception is an elementary and fundamental marketing concept that many successful companies are emphasizing in their marketing efforts.  The primary goal?  To create a unique experience for the customer and set themselves apart from the competition.

Whole Foods is definitely not the first company to adopt the concept of perception vs. reality --but they are a great example of a company with vision and excellent brand strategy.  They give customers what they want (or think they want): an unforgettable and rewarding shopping experience.

Interested in this marketing concept? Read.

Brandwashed by Martin Lindstrom (2009)