10 Twitter Blunders To Avoid

Twitter is one of the top social networking sites and how to use it properly will only be beneficial to you. Use it incorrectly and you’re wasting your time, losing money and creating a bad reputation for yourself.

Here are 10 things you should avoid doing on Twitter and solutions to remedy the problems.

1. If you’re only relying on using your keyword to find followers, you’re doing yourself a disservice. It’s vital to take the time to check out their profiles and read their Twitter stream. A mention of your keyword or key phrase doesn’t mean it’s their primary interest or niche.

2. Automatic direct welcome messages with your links look spammy and impersonal. Take the time to manually welcome new followers. This is a good time to get to know them a bit.

3. Networking isn’t about constantly promoting your business. It’s a turn off for your followers if they see you tweeting business links one after another. You start to look robotic and people wonder if you are a real person. Mix it up and let people see a personal side to you.

4. When you have a lot of followers, it’s easy to miss tweets especially if you’re also working on other tasks. When your followers respond to you with a @yourname reply be sure to respond. Check your @yourname replies and if hours have lapsed, send them a direct message.

5. When you re-tweet your followers, don’t add your own self-serving business link in with the tweet. Not only is it bad etiquette, it’s spammy. Instead give a reason you’ve chosen to do a re-tweet.

6. Fridays on Twitter is known as Follow Fridays with its hashtag #FF or #FollowFriday before a list of people to follow. Include your reason for the recommendations. People want to know why they should follow so and so.

7. Avoid profanity when tweeting. You shouldn’t be cursing up a storm as it’s unprofessional and offensive. Many people don’t tolerate it and will unfollow you. There are ways to get your point across without swearing.

8. Tweeting rapidly can easily fill up your followers’ time line and it’s annoying. Pace yourself between tweets and give your followers the chance to read and possibly respond.

9. One of the worse things to do on Twitter is promote how to get thousands of followers. It’s not about quantity, but the quality of followers you would like to connect with and help grow your business.

10. People aren’t receptive of repetitive tweeting. Change up your tweets to offer variety.

Avoid these 10 Twitter blunders and start networking the proper way so you can meet and connect with people who value what you offer.

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Moms of Faith’s FIRST WAHM Expo!

I am happy to announce that Moms of Faith will be hosting a special Online EXPO for WAHMS, wannabe WAHMS, and those just wanting to maybe purchase some great products in mid September…just in time for Christmas! If you work at home and want to share your business, service or just sell some products; it is very easy and inexpensive to rent a “booth.”

Attention Vendors! ONLY 3 SPOTS LEFT! Scroll Down for More info!

SEEKERS–> If you are looking for a business to do from home, then you will NOT want to miss this FREE….yes FREE event! ALSO –> MANY PRIZES will be given throughout the event. Some during presentations and some in between. Our “door prizes” will be given between each time slot. Some of the prizes we will give a way are…$25 Target gift card, a sample pack of each flavor of Shakeology, spa gift basket, scentsy plug-in (air freshener), Mary Kay gift certificate, prayer journal, organizing shoulder bag, thermal lunch tote, cosmetic bag and MUCH more!

Check this out! -> We will also have a special business conference call on Saturday night with some awesome tips, ideas and resources for current and wannabe WAHMS! Again…ALL FOR FREE! Plus, if you happen to miss the conference call…we will have it taped and you can purchase it for $5! How cool is that! OK, so details…

Expo Dates:

Thursday, September 16, 2010 – from 7pm EST until 11pm EST.

Friday, September 17, 2010 – from 7pm EST until midnight EST.

PLUS: SATURDAY, September 18, 2010 - a special LIVE business coaching session conference call at 9pm EST. Details will be posted DURING 2 day event IN chat room! Do not MISS this AWESOME FREE coaching session!! YOU MUST attend at least part of event to get details on HOW to gain access to this FREE business coaching session! NOTE: Vendors will get info before event.

For CURRENT Business owners and WAHMS:

You may sign up from July 20 until August 31. Spots are given first come first serve. After August 25 we will spend all of our time promoting actual FREE event.

Costs for “Booth” Rentals:

We will be having the expo in a chat room here on Moms of Faith. You can purchase spots in 30 minute time slots. SPOTS are limited.

25 min: $15 each – you will have the floor so to speak for 25 minutes to share your business. We ask that each booth have at least ONE give a way during their 25 minute spot. The more free stuff we have, and the fact the even if free for attenders…the more people will come! Optional: donate an additional gift for the actual event as a whole. I will be running special games for the 5 minutes in between time slots.

If you would like to have a 468×60 banner ad linked to your site on the chat page, fees are as follows:

NOTE: We anticipate HIGH traffic to this event with all the prizes and promotion!

top (only 1 per day): $40 per day. (this will be directly above chat room.) 0 of 3 available! All top banner ads have been sold!

bottom (no limit – placed in order of purchase): $15 per day OR BOTH days $25 (these will be directly below chat room)

If you want to be a part of this AWESOME event, please contact me at:

expo @ momsoffaith.com (remove spaces) with the time slot, business, and if you want to purchase any advertising. Again spots are limited to ONLY 18 for the entire event and given on a first come first serve basis!

Below is update on time slots and such.

Check back often for updates.

3 of 18 spots still available.

Schedule:

MANY PRIZES will be given throughout the event. Some during presentations and some in between. Our “door prizes” will be given between each time slot. Some of the prizes we will give a way are…$25 Target gift card, a sample pack of each flavor of Shakeology, spa gift basket, scentsy  plug-in (air freshener), Mary Kay gift certificate, organizing shoulder bag, thermal lunch tote, cosmetic bag and MUCH more!

Thursday, September 16: (EST)

7pm –

Name: Michelle Myers
Business Name: Myers Cross Training
URL: http://www.myerscrosstraining.com
PRIZE She is Giving: a copy of the new edition of Debbie Siebers’ Slim-in-6 workout program
Prize Value: $75

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

7:30pm -

Name: Becky Kuzma
Business Name: Scentsy Wickless Candles
URL: www.nowickwarmers.com
PRIZE She is Giving: Free plug-in – 3 Scentsy bars, and 1 hanging freshener
Prize Value: $28

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

8pm -

Name: Christa Lammers
Business Name: Work at Home United
URL: www.gogreen45kids.info
PRIZE She is Giving: Preferred Customer Membership
Prize Value: $29.99 plus $100 in free products

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

8:30pm -

Name: Jennifer Lewis
Business Name: La Bella Baskets
URL: mylabellabaskets.com/jenn.html (store and consultant info) or labellacny.com (store only)
PRIZE She is Giving: a La Bella Baskets SPA gift basket
Prize Value: $40

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

9pm -

Name: Lindsay Westbrooks
Business Name: Thirty-One gifts
URL: www.mythirtyone.com/lindsayw31
PRIZE She is Giving: Pull apart cosmetic bag that most women use to put their Bibles in. It will be monogram with “Have Faith”
Prize Value: $30.50

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

9:30pm -

RESERVED

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

10pm -

Name: Keely Bradley
Business Name: Bookjingle.com Book Scouts
URL: www.bookjingle.com
Prize She is Giving: Your choice - Waiver of deposit to get started as a
Bookjingle book scout or $25 Amazon Gift Card
Prize Value: $125 or $25

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

10:30pm

Name: Deborah S. Johnson
Business Name: Blessings Unlimited
URL: www.debbiej.blessingsdirect.com
PRIZE She is Giving: Everything is Lovely Collection Office Desk Set and Inspirational Photo Album
Prize Value: $36

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

Friday, September 17: (EST)

7pm -

Name: Shelly Mendenhall
Business Name: Close to My Heart
URL: http://wheeliescrapper.myctmh.com
PRIZE She is Giving: Stamp Set
Prize Value: $20

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

7:30pm -

Name: Bethany Martin
Business Name: Mary Kay Cosmetics
URL: TBA
PRIZE She is Giving: $25 dollar Gift Certificate to use on her Mary Kay website.
Prize Value: $25

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

8pm -

Name: Becky Kuzma
Business Name: Scentsy Wickless Candles
URL: www.nowickwarmers.com

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

8:30pm -

Name: Becky Tennant
Business Name: Just Jewelry
URL: www.itsjustjewelry.com
PRIZE She is Giving: Necklace, earring, bracelet set of choice from new catalog
Prize Value: $50

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

9pm -

Name: Regina Bell
Business Name: LydiaStyle
URL: TBA
PRIZE She is Giving: Gift Certificate
Prize Value: $10.00

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

9:30pm -

Name: Beth O’Neal
Business Name: Thirty-One Gifts
URL: www.mythirtyone.com/8987
PRIZE She is Giving: organizing wallet
Prize Value: $46

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

10pm -

RESERVED

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

10:30pm -

open

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

11pm -

open

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

11:30pm -

open

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

ALL are invited to a special LIVE business coaching session conference call at 9pm EST. Details will be posted DURING 2 day event IN chat room! Do not MISS this AWESOME FREE coaching session!! YOU MUST attend at least part of event to get details on HOW to gain access to this FREE business coaching session! NOTE: Vendors will get info before event.

- – - – - – - – - – - – - – -

If you have ANY questions about this event, please let me know: expo @ momsoffaith.com (remove spaces).






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Refresh Yourself

I love The Message translation for Psalm 51:7:

“Soak me in your laundry and I’ll come out clean, scrub me and I’ll have a snow-white life. Tune me in to foot-tapping songs, set these once-broken bones to dancing. Don’t look too close for blemishes, give me a clean bill of health. God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life. Don’t throw me out with the trash, or fail to breathe holiness in me. Bring me back from gray exile, put a fresh wind in my sails!”

I grew up reading the NIV version of the Bible, and sometimes I just love reading another version to get a fresh view of a verse I’ve read a thousand times. God always teaches me something new when I do this.

The past few weeks for me have been busy. Very Very Busy! It’s time for a breath of fresh air in my life and in my business. I’m looking for a new way to look at things. I’m asking God to multiply the work I’ve done and to help me “clean house” a little. I want to be able to enjoy what I do… and do things efficiently.

Last week I had to go through the very unpleasant task of changing my business name. I was honestly quite upset about it at first, but it really turned out to be a “God-Thing.” Sometimes change is good. Very Good! It took me a lot of work and extra hours, but it has paid off abundantly. Let me just tell you that I was very resistant to this change! I had to completely “re-brand” my business on everything from my website to the magnets on my car! It took tons of time…and money, too! But I really felt like God was driving this change. I could sense His presence as I went to work on getting everything in order. I listened. And God blessed.

What needs a breath of fresh air in your own life or business? What is going on with you right now that you are resisting or really not looking forward to?

Your Faith & Business Assignment for the week: Take some time away from your problems and refresh yourself. Even if its just a couple of hours. Read a new translation of your favorite scriptures. Treat yourself to a good cup of coffee and read a book at a coffee house. Find a recipe online for a “detox bath” and immerse yourself into a refreshing bath. Get your focus off of your problems and you can come back refreshed and able to look at things with a new perspective.

Ask God to breathe wind into your sails! He truly can turn something awful into something wonderful.

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: 5 Tips For Making Your Life and Business Run a Little Smoother

This week I just wanted to write out some simple things that help me greatly in my business and in my faith. I’m hoping these tips will do the same for you!

  1. Make a to-do list before going to bed each night. Write out everything you need to do for your business on one side of the paper and everything you need to do for your family on the other.
  2. Take 10 minutes and write out your menu for the next week. Believe me when I tell you how much time & money this will save you! I love looking at my menu posted on the refrigerator each day and knowing exactly what we’re having for lunch/dinner and that all the ingredients are bought and ready to go. This saves me time that I can spend on my business and/or with my family.
  3. Before you start checking off your to-do tasks the next morning, commit your work to the Lord and ask Him to bless your efforts.
  4. Visit Heartlight.org and have a scripture e-mailed to you each morning. I love to see this special little Word from God show up in my e-mail each morning. It stays in my inbox all day and I can meditate on this verse throughout the day.
  5. Create a “Power Hour” each day where you completely limit distractions. If you have young children, do this during nap time (or “rest time” as we call it at my house). Turn your phones off and set the timer for 60 minutes. Now see how many tasks you can complete in that 60 minute time frame. You’ll be amazed at how this turns into a “race against the clock!” It provides just enough momentum for me to work hard, work fast, and work well!

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17 NIV

Until Next Time…

MariLee
Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Choose Your Clients Wisely

I had a phone meeting this morning with a new client whose business is to organize other people’s lives! How great is that? However…I was a little nervous about taking this call because I had to preface the phone conversation with a warning and a disclaimer!

Here’s what happened:

I have a “mommy’s helper” that comes over for a few hours twice a week to play with my son while I work (she’s 11 and my son just loves her to death!). I try to schedule all of my important calls, writing projects, etc., during the hours that she is here and my son is happily occupied. However, my young friend’s family was ill this week so she didn’t come over this morning to entertain my son during this important phone meeting. On top of that, we are potty training so I really had to bare all to this new client that I have never talked to…all the while, praying that she would be understanding!

Thankfully, this woman had been through it all! She was positively understanding and didn’t mind one bit if I needed to hang up quickly to help my little guy jump up on his sesame street potty chair! We had a great conversation and I’m happy to say that we will start working together next week.

The reason I am telling you all of this is because I believe it is so important to choose your clients wisely! How different the outcome of this meeting could have been had I not been talking with another Christian mom!

You may not market primarily to the Christian community, but even so…I urge you to make sure that the people you work with are people of integrity!

Here’s what the Bible says:

Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NKJV

He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20 NIV

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared. Proverbs 22:24-25 NIV

The people you work closest with should be positive, honest, hard-working people! Does this mean you should shut out everyone else? Certainly not! You want to love everyone that God puts in your path without discrimination or judgment. But the ones that are in your “inner circle,” the people who influence you, the ones you work with on a daily basis….choose those people wisely!

Your Faith & Business Assignment for this week: Pray for Godly colleagues, clients & customers! It’s amazing who God will put in your life at exactly the right time. Even when you’re potty training! :-)

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Stepping Out in Faith

“Now then, my sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it.” Proverbs 8:32-33

Is your year getting off to a great start? Are you pursuing the dreams that we wrote down not long ago? I know from experience that it takes a great amount of courage and faith to step out of the box you’ve been living in and pursue your God-given dreams!

Maybe you know exactly what you need to do, you’re just still afraid to do it? Maybe you’re afraid of what your friends and family might say. Maybe your dream means a big risk financially?

Whatever is holding you up in pursuing your dream, take it to the Lord and seek His face on the subject. Many times our instincts kick in on purpose to give us a gut-feeling of caution. Are you feeling that way? Ask God for clear guidance and direction. Then step out in faith and act on what God is tell you to do (or not do!).

A prayer I bring to the Lord often is… “Lord, would you open wide the doors that I’m supposed to walk through, and firmly close the others?”

He has answered that prayer for me countless times.

This prayer applies to any and all situations: starting out in business, current business, future business, daily life, family situations, ministry…you name it!

Again: … “Lord, would you open wide the doors that I’m supposed to walk through, and firmly close the others?”

Then, trust the answers that come! Some may be disappointing and some may be exciting! Some might cause anxiety and some might cause the good kind of “butterflies in the stomach.”

Whatever the answer and outcome, know this: When you step out in faith, God has you firmly in the palm of His hand. If a door that you’d hope to walk through has been shut, trust that God has a better plan for you. If a door has been opened that you are unsure of, trust that God will guide you along the way.

As a wise mentor used to tell me often “Where God guides, God provides!”

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: God is Our Promoter

I receive a daily devotion each morning from Chuck Swindoll. This past week there was a reading that really hit home with me and reminded me that no matter how much time and energy I put into something…God is the promoter, not man!

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5: 5-7

As a mom in business, there are millions of ways to go out and promote what we’re doing. In fact, it’s a great idea to go out and do all the promoting! We put PR in our budgets and we count on that every month to help bring in sales. However, do you believe—and put into practice—the fact that PRAYER is more important than PR?

Chuck Swindoll says this: “Throw yourself on the mercy and care of God. This does not mean there is no place for planning or goal-setting or diligence; it just means we refuse to make success our private shrine.”

There is nothing wrong with setting goals and advertising, but when we put all of that before God, we are just wasting time. When you are feeling overworked and underpaid, stop and pray. Ask God to bless your efforts. Ask Him to be the Lord of your time, talent and treasure.

My goal each morning is to commit my entire day to the Lord before I start anything else. I’ll be honest and tell you that as a mother of a toddler, this doesn’t always happen. But even as I go throughout my day, I ask the Lord to be the center of what I’m doing. That my purpose and plans would be what He wants them to be—not my own agenda.

God is our promoter. No amount of promoting on our part is going to get us where we want to be without God’s approval! That makes a HUGE difference in the way I run my business.

The day I received this devotion, It was a direct message from God to my heart. I was stressed and had way too much on my plate. I needed to stop what I was doing and refocus my heart and my business on the Lord. I needed a break. I asked God to bless what I had already accomplished for the day…and then I took a much needed rest.

The devotion ended with this:

“Instead of spending all those hours pushing and promoting, we’ll wind up with more time for friends and family—and ourselves. Seems almost too good to be true, doesn’t it? It isn’t.

Submission + Humility – Worry = God-Honoring Success with Satisfaction”

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Create A Home Office That Suits Your Needs

Home offices are becoming as common as family rooms. Many moms are opting to work at home instead of in the office. Although I travel into the office daily, I have the capability of working remotely. As a single mom whose parents live four hours away when my daughter is sick it is a blessing to have the accessibility to work at home while still being able to take care of my daughter. Telecommunicating is a way of life for many moms and dads. This week my daughter was struck with the flu and unfortunately the flu bug bit me too. At my previous job I would’ve been completely stressed about having to report off, although I would have regardless! My policy is daughter first. My new boss completely understood and encouraged me to stay home, get well, and take care of my daughter. Since I haven’t acquired a ton of sick time I worked from the comfort of my home while nursing myself and daughter back to health.

Home offices are essential for those of us who need to escape to a private space to work. Even if you aren’t employed creating a home office can be a sanctuary for you to write, spend some private time with God, or work on personal projects. If you have a little space it doesn’t take much to create a comfortable home office.

Cheap and easy tips to make a home office that suits your needs

Furniture

A great desk is the centerpiece for any home office. The desk should be sturdy and have enough drawers to store paper, folders, office supplies, etc. Check out garage sales for antiques desks at cheap prices. If you spend much of the time in your office glued to your desk a comfortable chair that supports your posture and back is essential, so don’t skimp on the chair.

File Cabinets or book cases are great for storage. Look at Target or discount office stores for reasonably priced book cases or file cabinets. Overflowing book cases add character and coziness to any room.

A chaise adds a classy touch, but more than that sometimes you just need to relax on something other than a chair!

Organizing Tools

File folders, binders, and accordion folders are great for keeping those papers in order. Use them for your job and for your financial papers.

Use pretty pots or pottery as pencil and pen holders.

Busy moms need a calendar or planner to keep it all going. Get a calendar that either hangs on the wall or fits comfortably on your desk.

Decorative Touches

Work doesn’t have to be so serious! Liven up your office with a fun vibrant paint color for the walls.

Pillows, curtains, plants, and decorative throws are great touches that bring coziness into your work space.

Give the office character with pictures of your family and artwork. Gather all those pictures your kids draw for you, put them in frames, and let them see how proud you are of their masterpieces.

A home office can be as formal or as informal as you want it to be. Most importantly it should reflect your personality and your working style. Your office space should be welcoming and inspiring. I always find I work better when I have spiritual literature or quotes around that encourage me throughout the day. Incorporate small touches that bring a smile to your face or warmth to your heart. With more opportunities to work remotely a home office is a good investment whether you are a writer, a lawyer, or a stay at home mom that needs her privacy.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Who’s Advising You?

As you all know, I love John Maxwell! His books about leadership are filled with truths from years of experience. I’m currently reading his daily devotional called “Leadership Promises for Every Day.” One of my favorite excerpts is entitled “Your Advisers Will Make or Break You.” He quotes Proverbs 11: 14 “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” NKJV

The reading is all about how every leader should make sure that his or her closest friends add value to their life and organization. Why? Because the close company you keep will either “make or break you.”

Who are you keeping close company with? Does this person (or people) influence you in positive ways? Is this person encouraging? Do you leave this person feeling better about yourself, your life and your business? Does this person speak the truth in love? (All friends speak… some friends speak the truth…but it is rare to find a friend that actually speaks the truth in love! Seek out this kind of person. Be this kind of friend!)

I urge you to pray about your friends and your accountability partners. Allow God to bring people into your life who build you up and walk alongside you as you strive to become all that God wants for you to be as a woman, a wife, a mom and a business woman.

When deciding whom to bring alongside you in your business ventures, John Maxwell suggests that you choose the following types of people:

Creative People
Loyal People
People who share your vision
Wise and intelligent people
People with complementary gifts
People with influence
People of faith
People of integrity

Take some time and think about the people who are surrounding you. Who is God leading you to spend less time with? Who is God leading you to get to know better? Who can you invite into your business endeavors?

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Faith and Business 101: Facebook Fan Pages for Business

I hope you and your family enjoyed your family council meeting! We did, and every year I learn something new about my husband as our goals and dreams change.

This week I’d like to talk about Facebook Fan pages and how important they are for your business.

First of all, if you do not have a Facebook account you need to get one. I have been tracking Facebook for some time now, and more of my clients and sales come from Facebook than anywhere else. Twitter is a close second, but Facebook has been most successful for me.

We’ve talked about Facebook in the past, but very little about fan pages. Is a fan page better for business than a group? Yes. Groups should be for interactive discussions, and getting to know other people with common interests. Fan pages are where you should be promoting your business. Also: fan pages show up in Google searches! Groups do not!

A fan page can be your one stop shop for promoting your business! You can easily link your fan page to your twitter account so that you can post something on your fan page and it will automatically post to your twitter account! No need to do double duty. Here’s the link to do that: http://www.facebook.com/twitter/

Make sure your website links are visible on your fan page and try to make at least one fan page post a day. “But how do I get fans?” you ask. You have to promote your fan page. First, use the buttons on the top left hand side of you fan page to “suggest to friends.”

Then you’ll want to blog about your fan page and host giveways on your blog.

Here is an example: http://wahmblog.info/2010/01/05/new-years-celebration/

Facebook recently changed the rules about fan pages. You are not allowed to host giveaways on your fan page anymore. If you violate this, you run the risk of having your account disabled without warning. However, you can host a giveaway on your blog or website and link to it from your fan page.

More Facebook Info:

I have received many questions asking about privacy and becoming friends with people you really don’t know.

Here’s what I’ve done:

My husband and I share a Facebook account where all of our family and out-of-town friends can see photos and videos of us and our son. We keep that account solely for personal use and the privacy settings are set on all of our pictures and videos so that only our family can see them. Then I have another account that is in my name only that I use for business and connecting with colleague friends. I don’t post too many photos or a lot of personal info about my family for safety reasons. I get many friend requests and even though I usually only friend other women and moms, I have a young family and I’m home alone most of the day…it’s just better safe than sorry. Having said all that, I think it’s much better and safer just to create a fan page!

Keep the fan page for business and your profile for personal use.

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Proverbs 4:6

Until next time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.