Smiling Back

As I have been finalizing my chapter on "WOW! Customer Service" in the upcoming book "Blueprint for Success and Survival" with Dr. Stephen Covey and Ken Blanchard, (Look for in Bookstores in 2008) I have been reviewing my field notes from working with business clients who have successfully propelled their business from Now to WOW! They are Businesses, large and small who have transformed their organizations and dramatically increased their revenues by having a renewed love affair with their customers! Okay, let's start with the ingredients of a love affair---Yes that infatuation and head spinning awe, personal love letters and flowers that leave you catching your breath. Where did this...

Employers increasingly are realizing the value that worksite wellness programs deliver as an effective tool to improve employee health, increase productivity, reduce absenteeism and lower health care costs. A 2003 report published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) highlighted how important it is for employers to incorporate health promotion as part of their business strategy. The report asserts that preventablediseases place a heavy toll on business, including lower productivity and higher health insurance costs. The HHS estimates that $1.66 trillion was spent on health care in 2003. and it attributes a majority of those costs to chronic diseases and conditions such as heart...

New York City is the most densely populated city in the United States and is an important hub for commerce and finance. It is well known for its famous skyscrapers, as the birthplace for many important cultural movements and for the global influence it has in media, advertising, politics, cuisine, art, and education. There is a seemingly endless array of opportunities to enhance one's cultural and professional experience and it truly is 'the city that never sleeps.' The lifestyle is incredibly fast paced and the job sector is among the most competitive in the world. It is no wonder that many who live and work in New York regularly experience stress related issues that affect job performance and...

Employees want to know where they stand. It is the job of leaders to provide feedback and create a culture where in the moment feedback is modeled and encouraged. I am currently working with an executive coaching client who wants to improve his emotional intelligence. As part of the process we are incorporating multi-rater 360 degree feedback. In my interviews with raters, it is clear that some of the raters view my client as entitled, sometimes disrespectful and always seeing her priorities as more important than that of others. My client has blind spots related to these behaviors. She is open to feedback to get better. However, her co-workers are not comfortable having a conversation with my...

In today's economy, businesses are failing each and every day. Are we to blame the recession or Hard Times? The answer is no we can't. As business owners, we are responsible for our own actions. The problem is that in almost every industry, everyone seems to think that they can be just like like everyone else and still do fine. That just isn't the case any more. To make your business survive in these tough times, you have to stand out from the crowd. You can't be just like everyone else. If you are, then the only thing you have going for you in your price. Price wars are never a good thing and devalues your products or services. So what can you do to overcome this issue? You need to differentiate...

A trip to the airport is probably one of the least exciting parts of anyone's life. There are long lines, security check points, possible delays, and if the weather is bad, you never really know when your plane will take off or arrive. So, it is no surprise that the Buffalo airport can be so problematic - especially in the icy/snowy regions of the far north. If you're planning on flying into or out of Buffalo anytime soon, it might be good to know what your options are ahead of time to keep yourself entertained. Getting to and From the Airport There are plenty of transportation options in and around the Niagara and Buffalo areas in terms of transportation. If you're headed directly into the airport...

Joseph P. Kennedy, American executive, businessman and father of John F. Kennedy once said, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going". These are words of inspiration for all of us as we face an economic environment that is unstable. As Americans, we have been through tough times before but with perseverance, hard work, attitude, and the love of the American Dream, we have endured as a nation. The cost of energy, the upcoming presidential election, the war, a volatile stock market, and a downturn in the housing market are all factors that are causing American businesses and consumers to operate in an environment of fear. But my challenge to all the readers of this newsletter, and there are...

It is commonly recognized that word-of-mouth marketing is an effective way to market and advertise your massage therapy practice. But did you know that there is more than one type of word-of-mouth (WOM) marketing that you can use? According to the Word of Mouth Marketing Association womma.org, there are approximately eleven different types that could be classified as word-of-mouth marketing. Not everyone agrees with these categories but that is okay for us. Developing an effective word-of-mouth strategy may include one or multiple WOM types, so which types are useful for a massage therapist to utilize? Let's take a close at a seven of them as they are defined by the Word-of-Mouth Association and how...

The widely known stress reducing benefits of therapeutic massage are spurring a movement among learning institutions throughout the U.S. to provide students with access to chair massage, especially during exam weeks.  Students at high schools and universities are being treated to chair massages, full body massages and other relaxation techniques as part of an ongoing effort to educate young people about the benefits of stress management. Exam weeks are notoriously stressful for students, as the exam generally comprises a significant percentage of the course grade.  It is not uncommon to spend full nights studying, and this can cause a loss of mental focus as well as exhaustion.  Extensive...

The chair massage business can be an exciting and well-paying way to gain extra income. However, in order for it to work as one's full time job requires a lot of work. For years, massage therapists have used chair massage as a way to generate money, market themselves, and help to fill their appointment books with longer sessions. Here's what you'll need: A massage license (for nearly all states) A business license A massage chair Cleaning supplies A timer or clock *Business cards *Appointment book *Receipt book (for those who ask for a receipt) *Music, candles, mood enhancers *Massage insurance If you're not a massage therapist, becoming a therapist is going to be your first and most important...

Lighthouse Inns - United States Popham Beach Bed and Breakfast 4 Riverview Avenue, Popham Beach - Phippsburg, ME 04562 Phone: (207) 389-2409 Fax: (207) 389-2379 While technically not a lighthouse, this former life saving station offers views of several lighthouses off the Kennebec River, Maine, including Seguin Island. And it especially qualifies as a romantic site, as you may have seen it featured in the movie Message in a Bottle. Right on the beach, there are four rooms to choose from, which come with a two or three course breakfast served in the former mess hall. The Cove Bed and Breakfast Lighthouse1 Loop Road - PO Box 1300, Ocracoke, North Carolina 27960 Phone: (252) 928-4192 Fax: (252) 928...

Msambweni House is luxury uncompromised. It is a family owned and run exclusive house with 3 luxurious suites in the main house, one villa and one luxury tent. The house probably has the best infinity pool ever,25m and its winding jetty ends in a perfect sundowner spot overlooking th bid Indian Ocean where guests enjoy pre-dinner cocktails under the African Sky and the sound of lapping waves. ACCOMMODATION Main House - The main house that features high ceilings has three spacious, luxurious en-suite rooms with private verandahs.  The décor is of Swahili orient with fine finishes in chalk white and all the linen is pure white cotton. Lamu Villas - Not far from the main house are two Lamu villas...

Kerala Medical Tourism has a lot to offer to its tourists. The innumerable medical tour packages to Kerala has attracted thousands of tourists from every corner of the world. But, have you ever thought why is Kerala becoming the hot tourists destination for the US, UK and other European citizens. The secret behind the success of Kerala Medical Tourism among the foreign tourists is the variety and the availability of the all sort of medical treatments at the much lower rates. Medical Tourism in Kerala There was a time when people from India used to travel to the foreign countries for the various medical treatments. But things have changed now. A combination of many factors has led to the recent...

Martha's Vineyard is a great place to visit and if you'd like a vacation or tour package there are businesses that provide such packages. Some of the businesses specialize in tours and special events. Others are hotels that offer lodging, spa and dining deals. Destination Insider offers three unique Martha's Vineyard vacation packages. The first is a Martha's Vineyard Adventure Getaway that includes a kayak or canoe tour, a walking trails guidebook, two dinner certificates and concierge services. The second is a Bicycling Getaway for two. The Vineyard is a spectacular place to bike. It has fabulous scenery and is mostly flat with some gentle rolling hills. This package includes 2-day bike rentals...

Everyone loves a good massage, and it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to get one. You, yourself, can be your loved one's masseuse for the night, and forever be remembered as the strong hands that rubbed out the knots, kinks, and soothed any aches and pains away. Surprise them one night after a long day at work. Set up a quiet room to be their haven of serenity while you work your magic on their body. Dim the lights, and light several scented candles that are your lover's favorite. You need to keep in mind all of their preferences in order to make this night successful. Their favorite candles, favorite music you will play softly in the background, and favorite scented oils or lotions that will...

Finding a good pet sitter is like doing some detective work. You have to dig for it a little. First you can look in the yellow pages or go online to do your research. Ask your friends if they have ever done this and if there is anyone that they might recommend and you can also ask your vet but he would most likely want you to board them with him but that can get very expensive Having a professional pet sitter will provide your pets the care and take care of their needs for them when you are traveling right from the comfort of your home. This will give you the peace of mind so that you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. This field has grown incredible over the past few years. As it is evident by...

Alternative medicine for pets can be just as helpful for animals as it is for people. Although most of us think of alternative medicine as being new, alternative ways of treating  pets have been around for centuries. In fact, pets will often self-medicate by chewing on plants in your backyard because intuitively, they know that certain plants and herbs are good for them. In this article, you'll about the various natural treatment modalities available for animals. Alternative pet health includes those who practice chiropractic techniques, holistic medicine, homeopathy and acupuncture. While these professionals can have a positive impact on your pet's health, if your pet has serious symptoms, it's...

Most hotels in Boston offer value-priced enticing and attractive holiday packages to ensure that your visit to Boston remains a perfect remembrance. From family entertainment packages to adventure themes, Boston hotel packages offer fun, excitement and reasonable rates. There are the traditional Thanksgiving and New Year eve packages, as well as historic packages. Historic packages usually include ours of the many historic and interesting landmarks of Boston. There are packages that include children. One of the more popular is the "Aquarium," featuring a stay at one of Boston's fine hotels and a tour of the famous Boston Aquarium. There is even a special package for business travelers at the...

Sometimes you don't have the time or resources to take your dog to a pet spa, but you can still pamper your dog with a do-it-yourself spa day. Think about it - you know how Rover loves to get your one-on-one attention, so why not give it a try. It's a great way to spoil your best friend. You really can create the royal bath time right at home and it will be much more soothing when the treatment is coming from you. Here's how easy it is. Let's begin by getting together the grooming supplies you'll need. It's a good idea to always have a supply of these on hand anyway, but if you already have them around, you can be more spontaneous about spa day. Top-notch products can easily be found online and...

Pet Wellness embraces many areas of a healthy happy pet so in appreciation of Stress Awareness Month learn how you can identify and eliminate pet stress to give him a longer, happier, healthier life. April is Stress Awareness Month and this applies to all living things, big, small, human or not - particularly our pets. Are you surprised to read that animals have stress? Stress affects our dogs and cats and various type pets across the board. Pet stress just like people stress causes health problems, decreases the quality of life, causes depression, and shortens life span. For these reasons, amongst others, it is necessary for pet owners to practice another part of pet wellness which is finding out...

Stress has become the silent killer of the 21st century with over 80% of health related expenditures spent on stress related disorders. These ailments include hypertension, migraine, headaches, ulcers, asthma and many other deadly diseases. In most cases stress is caused by the human mind by conjuring up imaginary threats. Stress has long term and prolonged effect in any individual thus changing his behavioral patterns and further alienating him from friends and family. Deep breathing is the most effective and inexpensive stress relief tip. This if done whenever a person is stressed would enable him to calm down and get back to normalcy very soon. Having a positive outlook towards life and taking...

Do you remember how you felt the last time someone came and massaged your neck and shoulders? If you're anything like me, you started purring. A gentle massage is a wonderful experience so why not give one to your cat. Cat massage is not as strange as it sounds. And it is not hard to learn or do. You will need a surface (table, couch or even your lap) that is a comfortable height for you to work on and some soft towels or similar for your cat to lie on. There are a few different methods of massaging a cat. Start stroking, moving down the cat's body and as one hand leaves the body or tail the other hand starts at the head again. You can vary the pressure but you should always start gently. Experiment...

Most of the big companies we know and respect today started small. Banana Republic, Microsoft, McDonald's Even Coca-Cola started out as a concentrated drink dispensed from drug store shelves. But look at how far they've come! So if you're someone dreaming of owning a big corporation someday, don't be afraid to be the little guy. There are small business opportunities you can start today that you can build on later. Take a look at some of these opportunities that just might be the ticket to success and wealth for you: Design Design can cover different industries and arts, music, media, advertising, even construction. If you have an eye for detail and a creative mind, you could start a small...

u looking for the perfect getaway from the every day hum drum, if you want to get a vacation from the kids with their screaming and fighting, or if you just want to get away from work and all the deadlines that are on you, then perhaps it is time to take a Victoria accommodation at one of the beautiful hotels, motels, cottages, bed and breakfasts, or resorts. There is a wide variety of hotels to choose from that will accommodate whatever your needs may be. To make the most out of your trip, you will first want to know what your budget is. This will help you in knowing what your price range is to match it with the perfect place to stay. You will want to make sure you get your money’s worth and...

k"> Most of the big companies we know and respect today started small.  Banana Republic, Microsoft, McDonald'sÖ Even Coca-Cola started out as a concentrated drink dispensed from drug store shelves.  But look at how far they've come!  So if you're someone dreaming of owning a big corporation someday, donít be afraid to be the little guy. There are small business opportunities you can start today that you can build on later.  Take a look at some of these opportunities that just might be the ticket to success and wealth for you:DesignDesign can cover different industries ñ arts, music, media, advertising, even construction.  If you have an eye for detail and a...

In past centuries, when thieves and vagabonds abounded, men of any standing would have a whole clutch of men protecting him. Wherever he went, he would always have his protectors, or kinsmen, to take care of him and his entourage. This is how the idea of having several groomsmen attendees at a wedding. These days, of course, there is usually no need for these men to be armed, but in days of old, they would normally be carrying swords and the like. Indeed, this is how the bride found herself on the left of her groom so that he could leave his sword arm free in case of attack! This also applies for men walking on the outside of women on sidewalks and the like and still harks back to those days...

It is not unusual for a person to find themselves in need of legal representation when they are participating in behavior that is not necessarily the norm for them. When some people are on vacation they feel that they can partake in risky behavior that they would never think of taking part in while they are home. Part of this is due to the fact that they are in unfamiliar territory and therefore believe that they are clocked in anonymity because of the new surroundings and sometimes it is due to the fact that they are drinking more than usual in an attempt to have more fun. When someone gets caught up in this kind of problem in the state of California they often find themselves in need of a Las...

A luxury holiday in Turkey can prove to be a rejuvenating and refreshing experience, where you return home de-stressed, tanned and physically invigorated. And who could ask for a more relaxing way to spend a few days than at a spa in a beautiful sunny destination? You can work out the knots in your back with relaxing massages, enjoy refreshing skin treatments and try out some of the new spa therapies on offer. And to top the experience off, you can lounge around in the comfort of your luxury Turkey hotel, never having to lift a finger or want for anything. Marden Palace Antalya This grand spa hotel is just the place for a luxury holiday in Turkey. Marden Palace Antalya, as the name suggests, is...

If you think stress only happens to professionals who work indecent hours, think again. Stress is in fact part and parcel of everyone's response to the increasingly fast pace of daily life in this century. A daily routine can be as ordinary as getting the kids ready for school, taking Dad for his regular medical check-up, driving to work, fetching the kids for extra-curricular activities, searching for the right home loan financing... well you get the picture. Stress can be what enables you to achieve more in your typical day or it can work against you and prevent you from accomplishing your normal daily tasks. The right amount of stress is a positive force. It helps us to do work to the best of our...

Have you have been trying to come up with romantic marriage proposal ideas? What could be more romantic than having your sweetheart walk into a candlelit room at a cozy bed and breakfast with rose petals laid out on the bed to read "Will you marry me?" A bed and breakfast is a lot more intimate than a big hotel. Also the owners and staff are much more willing to go out of their way to help you set up everything to make sure that your wedding proposal will be a day she never forgets. Here are the Top Ten Things you'll want to check out when you reserve your room at a bed and breakfast. This will help you make sure that you get one that is especially romantic and right for you. 1. Be sure you...

e recession and global financial melt down, all of us have been working hard and too hard for that matter so that we can save ourselves from sinking into debt. We do not take our weekly breaks regularly and vacations have surely gone out of the window because we do not have time as well as the needed funds to enjoy a peaceful vacation. All these things build stress in each one of us. In fact we need good breaks only in this situation so that we can be rejuvenated and get back to work with full energy. One of the ways of de-stressing yourself is to hire a Chingford escort. There is nothing better in this world like human companionship. Your escorts in Chingford are highly capable of offering you good...

The Tropical North Queensland region is a tropical paradise. A place where nature takes over and the cares of the world seem to melt away. What better place for a retreat and spa? There is no better place in the entire world. Hence, this tropical getaway is home to one of the most elaborate and innovative spas, known as the Julatten Mountain Retreat; located less than 30 minutes from the North Queensland and Port Douglas, this high mountain getaway is said to be located in one of the most outstanding climates in the entire world. A location that offers low humidity and year round seasonal temperatures of about 30 degrees Celsius and below year round, this amazing destination is the perfect setting...

A migraine is not just a bad headache. It is a pain so severe that it makes your whole body feel ill and unable to cope. It is often accompanied by throbbing pain , feeling of nausea, dizziness, an inability to think, sensitivity to light, intolerance of noise, pains in other parts of the body, etc. Faced with such an ailment, it is important to know what can help relieve such attacks or even prevent them happening. Medication First point of call is usually medication. Although it may not take the headache away, painkillers can ease the pain and make it more bearable. If you are a regular sufferer, you may have prescribed drugs which you take to help make the event more bearable. Natural Remedies...