Fresh copy from Reed's Writing Block

I am a Supermom. I mean come on, why can’t I have it all?

Let’s count the hats, shall we? Mom, wife, volunteer, friend, sister, grand-daughter, aunt, business-woman, colleague. Now let’s throw in some mittens for good measure: Avid reader, avid summer-time rower, occasional gym-goer, avid socialite and part-time TV watcher. This month, we throw in a move to a new house, and I think you have a Supermom!

There are people out there who believe the Supermom Syndrome is detrimental to our health and is the leading cause of stress-related illness.  Some people say that when a woman takes on too many roles she becomes exhausted, and doesn’t have time for the important things in life, like her friends and family.  Some people even say Supermoms are perfectionists, and feel compelled to do everything society expects them to.  I have to say it — I totally disagree.

I am a Supermom because it fulfills me.  I feel a sense of accomplishment each and every day.  I am a contributing member of society.  I am a role model to my children because I volunteer, because I am the Chair of their school’s Parent Council, because I care enough about myself to earn my own income via my own business.  I value quality over quantity — I spend quality time with my children when we’re home together, or when we’re at hockey or T-ball practice.  I spend quality time with my husband on date nights and on the weekends.  I take time for myself to relax and enjoy my favorite things.

I also know when to push back.  I choose my volunteer projects very carefully and say no when I’ve reached my limit.  I also like to delegate.  I refuse to waste time cleaning my house — I have a cleaning service, and I make sure my boys make their own beds and tidy up their toys.  I also take care to balance activites with family time – each of my boys plays only one summer sport and one winter sport, that’s it.

Why is being a Supermom such a bad thing?  Superdads don’t get this much grief, do they?

Your Website…

With over 182 million websites on the internet today, getting yours to stand out from the crowd can seem impossible. When you consider that most website visitors scan the pages for the information they need, you really only have a matter of seconds to persuade that visitor to take action. Whether you want them to place an order online, call in to your sales team, or email you for a quote, the text you post on the website can make or break the deal.

The number one thing consumers look for when browsing sites is how the product or service offering will benefit them. How will the product save them time? How will the service save them money? Can a consumer expect to see an increase in productivity if they purchase your product?

Ensure your website answers these questions by writing effective copy!

Consider these sentences:

1. ABC Company prides itself on providing excellent products at affordable prices.
2. Our company has been in business for over 25 years.
3. Our staff is knowledgeable and provides great customer service.

Now, as a consumer, do you see any benefits from these statements? Would you be motivated, after reading these statements, to purchase something from the company?

Consider these statements:

1. Clients save time and money when they implement any of the first-rate products found in ABC Company’s extensive product inventory.

2. Increase the value and profitability of your business by taking advantage of the skills and knowledge of a team dedicated to serving the automotive industry for over 25 years.

3. First-time home buyers benefit from the knowledge and expertise of our seasoned professionals.

With only seconds to impress, your site must pack the biggest punch possible. While writing effective web copy does take hard work, it can produce results. Don’t know where to start? I can help!

Make 2010 the best year yet by incorporating one or all of these items into your company’s list of New Year’s Resolutions:

1.  Review your business plan.  Update sales forecasts, revise your marketing plan, reconsider your business goals and objectives.  Don’t have a business plan?  Write one!

2.  Consider outsourcing.  Hire a co-op student, a bookkeeper or maybe even a sales associate, so you can focus on what you do best.

3.  Join a networking group.  Networking groups are a great way to make new contacts, generate sales and revitalize your business.

4.  Learn something new.  Do some research and take a course or workshop geared to improving the skills relevant to your industry.  If nothing else, you’ll meet new people who may become customers, colleagues or maybe even friends!

5.  Schedule time for you.  Work in a round of golf, take that long overdue vacation, or simply schedule a Monday morning pedicure.  Taking time to recharge creates a healthy work-life balance that is crucial for long-term success.

  
With these tips in mind, I wish you, your family and your business all the best in 2010!

Happy New Year!