McKeon Funeral Home brings users in on Google Maps.

Adorned with retro fitting furnishings and a modern office space, Mckeon Funeral Home is a far cry from the typical neighborhood parlour. Once inside, you quickly realize that the front living room also serves as a communal space for patrons. “Our goal is to meet the needs of our clients so that their needs become our mission," a mantra shared by all of the parlor staff. Without prompting, William T. Curran, Director of the Mckeon Funeral Home, discusses the community impact of the shifting economy and details affordable funeral packages for disenfranchised families with limited resources. Without compromising the personal memorials of the departed, William outlines new cost effective packages that will capture the life, character and milestones of the departed in a professional and distinctive manner.  

Despite the array of quality service offered to the community, William acknowledged the importance of social media. He consulted with local Community Board 7 to inquire about nontraditional marketing strategies to help promote the establishment and was referred to Google Trusted Photographer and Creative Director of Business Live 360 Maureen Erokwu. Introduced to  Google Business Photos, Mckeon Funeral Home quickly adopted Google's newest initiative, becoming the first establishment of its kind in New York to complete the Google Business 360 tour.

Google Business View allows businesses to showcase their establishments and attract new customers by engaging them with an interactive 360 degree tour. Panoramic views simulate consumers and allows them to  explore a space as if they were physically at the location. With the completion of a few identifiable questions on the Google+ Local page, William T. Curran took advantage of this interactive marketing tool to enhance his already successful business. Mckeon Funeral Home transitioned from just another business, to a fixed staple in the Bronx,armed with a new prescription for success. Mckeon Funeral Home is now pleased to invite local residents into it's Google Hosted Virtual Tour.

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Twitter's Changing The GamePlan: What Does This Mean For Your Business?

Twitter is one of the main social media sites used by businesses, big & small, to promote their services & interact with potential customers. Twitter has recently made big changes in their policies & is attempting to launch new programs toward small businesses. Are these moves good for Twitter? Is Twitter the right platform for your small business? Let's get into the details & you decide.

Twitter recently discontinued their relationship with the social media network LinkedIn. An official letter was released by the LinkedIn offices stating that "Starting today Tweets will no longer be displayed on LinkedIn". In the letter, they explain that you can post first on LinkedIn & then 'Share' the post to Twitter, but not vice versa. These changes were made by Twitter since they've been re-developing their strategies. This change is good for (but might upset) those who use the auto-synchronizing option out of laziness & disorganization. As a business owner, you should already know that auto-synchronizing your social media platforms is a no-no; you want each to be unique with the approach by who you're targeting. As for Twitter, this move received mixed reviews. It would have seemed more legitimate if they would have given Facebook the same treatment, however they did not. This is a good strategy for LinkedIn; have you checked out your profile this week? The layout is definitely less focused on Twitter & more on the LinkedIn features. If you use your LinkedIn more often, this change is a win for you.

Switching gears a little, Twitter also started a new program for small business that might benefit you directly. This also received mixed reviews from the small businesses they targeted to test out the program. Twitter has been giving away $100 in free ads to small businesses, allowing them to promote their business across the site. There are pro & cons to investing in these ads:

Pros

• Your business spreads wider than your local community
• Inexpensive 
• Increase profits
• Increase followers

Cons

• If your service is given locally, a wider fan base wouldn't be necessary 
• For some businesses, Twitter ads are an expense that can make them lose money instead of gain
• Your tweets can be directed towards consumers that have no interest in your business

The two biggest points would be: (1) if your business is locally-based (plumber, nail salon, mom & pop store), these ads are not you. (2) You have to decide if the investment is within your budget (you do have a budget, right?). It worked for some, not so much for others. 

Does your company need to tweet-tweet? 

- Shantavia Thomas 

Dream Big, Think Smart

"Dream Big, Think Smart"

15 Tips for Start-Up Businesses

A business plan, a catchy slogan and a low interest loan…the key ingredients for a new venture, right? Maybe 20 years ago!! The reality is, when starting a business, how you think supports the development and implementation of your plan. Goal setting is essential, but proper execution is even more valuable. Let’s explore the fundamental stages of “thinking business” for a new start up. 

1. Complete a business plan. Remember content is more important than length. Formally developing your business plan brings it to life and allows you to make realistic assessments.

2. Attend free marketing classes and business seminars. Several business solution firms offer no-fee information sessions about their services and often have professional speakers willing to answer questions about resources to support your business ideas.

3. Add empowerment workshops to your annual vacation goals. When you think clearer and have a positive outlook, your attitude is reflected in your perception and treatment of consumers.  

4. Purchase the domain for your potential business. There’s nothing like coming up with a brilliant name and concept that’s owned by someone else!

5. Assess the location you would like to conduct business. Will your business rely on foot traffic? Do you prefer a residential or commercial area? It usually takes six months to a year to find an ideal location. Be prepared to sign a multiple year lease if you do not intend on purchasing the property. Virtual offices can serve as an option if you only need a telephone number and mailing address. Community office spaces are also affordable options.

6. Become your brand. Perfect your elevator speech. Be prepared to advertise, promote and consult with potential consumers at all times. You should always carry professional business cards, flyers, or advertising material. Tell your friends and family what you’re doing. While they may not possess the expertise that you do, they can promote and refer your business for free! Branding your business is a process and requires thought. Branding is not only about designing a great logo, but creating an image for your business that consumers will remember. Memorability can translate into 80% of your business.

7. Having an entrepreneurial spirit is just as important as having effective leadership abilities. Becoming your own boss requires great organization and customer service skills. Assess your strengths, and if you’re lacking in the most important areas, work on your professional/personal development. If all else fails, identify an individual who can collaborate with you.

8. Evaluate your team members. A new business should be careful not to exhaust funds on too many employees-if their role does not impact customer service or profits. At least for the first year, business owners should be hands on. Utilizing college interns may be another inexpensive option to reduce costs.

9. Decide if you are filing for a business certificate or forming a corporation. While becoming a corporation has additional financial implications, it might work to your best interest, when protecting your personal assets.

10. Identify a Marketing Campaign. Most businesses these days are retaining full service Marketing firms to promote their product. Monthly fees for these services can be tailored to your budget. Collaboratively, you can gauge which platforms are appropriate for your type of business. Don’t get distracted with companies promising to grow your business for you. You are the only person that can accomplish that mission. However, making well informed decisions and anticipating setbacks, will keep you focused.

11. Identify your financial objective. Is your business a supplement to your primary income or do you intend on opening multiple locations?  Nailing down your objective will help shape your business plan and future commitments.

12. Hire an Accountant. Even if you majored in finance, it is important to have an independent seasoned professional, reviewing your earnings and losses, quarterly. You may also not have time to keep up with new legislation and amendments. You don’t want to find yourself in a dilemma, filing a form with the IRS that was discontinued the year before.

13. Retain a Business Attorney. A good business attorney will help you with the business component of your business. This may include contracts, compliance, liability, zoning, etc. Be mindful that most attorneys have specializations. Avoid hiring general practioners that may or may not be up to speed with business standards in your state. 

14. Supporting your small business requires long days, a strong commitment and in some cases low wages.  Starting a new business is not a 9-5.  Anticipate up to 80 hours per week on average.

15. Join your local Chamber of Commerce. These organizations are designed to support business owners, whether you’re a start-up or an established entity. This may also be a great opportunity to network with other like minded individuals.

Still interested in starting a business? Here are a couple of helpful resources.

1. http://www.sba.gov.com
2. http://www.score.org/

- Natasha Watterson

5 Ways To Market Yourself on The Internet

The Internet is a big scary world, I know, but there are tricks to making yourself stand out or giving your company a spot in the marketplace. There many different approaches to creating a buzz around your name, but here's a list of a few that are easy & will definitely help you get the ball rolling.

Five: Have a Main Website 

You can either do-it-yourself (DIY projects are fun) or you can hire a web designer to do it for you. Having a main website is like having an online portfolio. It's where other companies/customers can see you & what you do. Here's where your audience will get more familiar with who you are. Think of this as your homebase; everything should lead back to the main site. On your main site you should have your logo, a biography of you & your company, a list (& link) to all of your other sites (we'll get to those soon), testimonials from satisfied customers, & whatever else that fits into showing off your company.

Four: Showcase what you do.
Don't talk about it, be about it! No one wants to just hear what you have to say about your company, everyone needs to see it as well. Have examples of your work on your sites & main website. If previous customers were pleased with whatever you provided for them, have testimonials from them saying how great of a company you are! People want to see end results & if they'll be happy with what they receive.

Three: Networking is not only for in person.
You meet people online, don't you? Get to know them & keep them around if you like them enough? Well, the same can be applied to your brand/company. Talk to others in your field or those who can use your service. No one will know you exist if you don't get out there & start talking to people. Write on blogs you like, comment on updates, whatever to make another company or the consumers notice you.

Two: Social Networking SITES!
This one goes hand-in-hand with the above tip. You gotta have sites to talk to these people on! Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. The more sites the better, but within reason. Don't have sites that don't connect to who you're trying to reach. That means don't make a Tumblr unless you're trying to connect with a younger crowd. The other ones I listed are perfect for whatever you do. Have these accounts so people can add, follow, or connect with you & keep up with your updates.  Also, have your email available on these sites. You want to give people the idea that you're willing to answer their questions whenever they may have them.

One: Blogging works wonders!
I'm a little bias but yes, blogging is definitely a tool companies should use to keep the "We want you to know us" aspect. Keeping your audience current on what you or your company are up to is a great way for them to make sure that you're always improving & moving upward. Also, having blog posts that touch upon things that connect to your company helps the relativity factor. Think outside the box. Have fun & be creative, but always make it relevant.

These are only a few ways, but there are many more out there! Like I said, be creative!


Shantavia Thomas  

Free Co-Working Space for Small Business Owners & Artists

Wix.com & NYC are giving entrepreneurs & artists a place to work on their business by offering a free co-working & event space to those who need it. For small businesses in NYC, The Wix Lounge can be used as their home base. On top of the space, free expert advice is also available on site from Wix.com support manager. 

The Wix Lounge provides free wifi, coffee/tea, & free printing & copying up to 5 pages. Registration for a space is as simple as taking a step in the door. Business owners can walk in during business hours, sign in, & take a seat & start working. That simple. The networking possibilities are endless. Wix hosts "Lounger Happy Hours" once a month to get regulars to mix & mingle with other businesses that may be in need of their services. 

So what does Wix get out of the deal? Besides the gift of helping the small business owner, they help these businesses establish their online presence by offering assistance to build their website with ease for a small fee. 

Wix unfortunately does not take money from business owners to permanently maintain a space, however business owners are allowed to come as often as they need & stay indefinitely. These spaces are only available in NYC & the Mission District of San Francisco but the potential for expansion is encouraged for this innovative venture for small business owners.

WixLounge.com

- Shantavia Thomas

Introducing the Webmaster Academy

Are you SMBs ready to get back to college? Google has made finding information on how to get your site up, running, & ranked in the dominate search engine by listing your needs in a syllabus-like platform in their new Webmaster Academy. Finding information on how to run your SMB & understanding the terminology can get a little stressful so Google made it simpler for you to find all your needs. The new Webmaster Academy is, "designed to walk business owners through the information they need to get their site up and running in easy to understand steps," says Garen Checkly from the Google Support Quality Team. The Academy covers topics such as:

• Adding your site to Webmaster page 
• Using Google + (everyone needs one of these by now)
• What makes great content
• How to get online free
• & Creating a Google Places page (ALL SMBs need a Google Places page)

This list goes on. Once you click into on of the categories, Google will give you a tutorial on the topic, with key terms & processes, & links to additional resources. Can't get more like college than that! You're also able to "graduate" the Webmaster Academy by clicking all 19 sessions & Google will see you wanted that A for effort.

The grade really matters when you put all that learned into your site & see the information that you learned pay off. So follow the instructions & watch your ranking & visitor count go up. 

-Shantavia Thomas

National Small Business Week

It's small business week & there are a slew of events going on in the D.C. area to recognize the

importance of small business, its effect on economy, & to educate small business owners on topics that are relevant to them. A semi-annual study of American small businesses shows us that they are stressed but as well as optimistic. With the growing market for small business, the mixed emotions are understandable. Competing with big business is a hard task in itself, however it also opens up the floodgates to be creative & innovative. Small Business Week may tip the scales toward being more optimistic for many businesses.

The events & seminars being held provide information that key into small business owners wants & needs. The topics span from 'How To Win Big With Big Business' to 'Business Matching'.

Check out the website, National Small Business Week, for inspirational speakers or to watch the proceedings live!

- Shantavia Thomas

It Gets Easier with Google’s Bulk Management Tool

Small business owners are winning on all fronts these days. Now Google has another tool that will allow business owners to breath a little more easily. Google's (improved) Bulk Management Tool allows SMBs (small/mid-sized businesses) who have multiple locations to organize information for each location at once. It also

•  helps you find mistakes & irregularities in your listings quicker than before with the updated Google Places interface. 
• edit one or more listings' data simultaneously 
• upload new listings using a data file or by adding them individually within the interface 

Google also decided to help SMBs along the way with the updates by providing a "Give Feedback" link where you can ask questions as well as tell Google if you like the improvements. Addition to that, Google uploaded tutorials for verified & unverified users. So before you dive into your Google Places dashboard, check out the videos first. 

For Unverified Users 

For Verified Users 

The new interface will definitely help you manage your business with Google Places more efficiently & with less stress. If you still have a problem or want further information on the Bulk Management Tool after watching the tutorials, visit the Google Help Center. 

- Shantavia Thomas 

Unique Photo Completes Their Google Business View Program

Unique Photos, New Jersey's Camera & Video Superstore, recently finished their virtual tour through Google Business Photos. Unique Photo supplies all the wants & needs of all photographers, videographers, & those who just want to capture a beautiful moment for over 60 years. It's not surprising that they would see the benefits of using this special Google feature on their Google Places profile. 

Their dedicated customers & as well as new prospects can use this indoor walk-through feature to see the inside of their massive store & what they have in stock. This is perfect for those who want a heads up before actually visiting the location. Unique Photo was so pleased about their business with Google Business Photos, they had a few kind words to share.

In regards to our involvement, " it was a fabulous experience. You were punctual and the pictures could not have come out better! We have an expansive store and University and the 360 degree store view helps convey that to our customers. Thank you so much for your hard work - we get complemented by customers on the 360 degree image all the time." - Unique Photo

 Another customer walks away satisfied! To explore Unique Photo, please see below 

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- Shantavia Thomas

NY XPO: Networking is Key

I had the chance to go to the 7th Annual New York XPO for Business at the Jacob Javits Center. It was a 2-day event spanning over the 2nd & 3rd, but I was only able to go to on the 3rd. Let me first say, I have never been to the Jacob Javits Center so the whole building was a bit overwhelming. Finding the part of the building where the XPO was held was such a stress. I had to keep getting directed to another hallway, and another hallway, AND another. However, I made it nonetheless, early actually. I arrived a little 9:00 AM so I walked around a little, watched a few business set up their tables, & tried to prep myself to speak to these small business owners. 
I went to the first seminar at 9:30, it was on Social Media (perfect for me). It was titled The Social Media Toolbox: Secret Strategies to Increase Marketing & Engage Followers. I definitely learned a lot for Business Live 360 as well as for my personal business, & that's how most of the seminars worked. After that was over, the XPO was in full swing. Everywhere I turned someone was passing me their business card or selling me their pitch, it was a bit overwhelming (same as the layout of the building). However, I eventually got into the swing of things. I handed out too many business cards to count & expressed the benefits to so many small business owners of Google Business Photos/Business Live 360. I even attended a few more seminars & learned a lot of tips in creating a brand, how to "power network", & other great strategies to become a better business woman.
It was a great experience & I'm definitely happy that I went. I suggest all small business owners attend functions such as this one. A few other businesses that were in attendance was: 5 Hour Energy, Larry Flyhnt's Hustler's Club NYC, Think Energy, Fortune Web Marketing, & about 400 other small & mid-sized businesses. A great experience indeed. 
Happy Networking!


- Shantavia Thomas

Google Business Views now available for Android users!

Earlier today, Google Business View took a big leap in the right direction. The new feature from Google is now available on Android devices! With this new advancement, people can have the 'Street View' technology in the palm of their hands.

Android users will have indoor walk-through capabilities for their local venues & businesses. A GPS for the inside of businesses, down to what floor to take an elevator? Score! This new app is available to users in the U.S. & Japan, the two countries where venue owners can already upload their own indoor maps (learn something new everyday). Of course, the Google Business Imagery is the best part of the new app. Using 360-degree panoramic technology, users can see the inside of their local stores, businesses, & restaurants as if they were walking through it on foot.

 One popular business that is taking advantage of this feature is the Four Seasons Restaurant on East 52nd Street. I'm a dedicated Android user myself & I know I'm excited about this new addition. If you have an Android, & for some odd reason you don't have the mobile app on your phone, it's available on Google Play. Take that, Iphone!

You can log onto www.vosmap.com to complete your Google Business Views as well!

- Shantavia Thomas

We head over to the White House on this one!

Google Maps has released Street View imagery for the White House. Now in Google Maps you can take a virtual interactive tour of the official residence of the President of the United States.




Click to Navigate.


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To get started on your Google Business Photos, New York and New Jersey Business Owners click here

What is Google Business Photos and why should I become familiar with it?

Google Business Photos is Google's newest Initiative with America's Businesses in mind.  Now you can bring your business to life with a 360-degree, interactive tour. Showcase all the details that your customers love. Perfect for restaurants, retail shops, gyms, salons, and more! Not only will these images appear on Google searches, Google Maps, and Google Places, but you can easily embed these images on your own website, social media pages, and more!

Your customers can walk around, explore, and interact with your business like never before. Customers will be able to truly experience your business - just like being there!

Interested businesses can get started with the Google Business Photos here, and New York and New Jersey's Google Trusted Photographer will drop by for a 360-degree photo shoot.