Running An IT Organization Is Like Running A Business

With the changing dynamics of Information Technology today,  IT Professionals need to take a different approach to their work than in the past.  

In the past, if you were in IT, you were that geek with a tool belt that loved spending weekends taking their IBM computer apart and putting it back together.  The IT Geek also had their own "data center" in their garage, complete with a couple of networks, a SQL Server and a couple of Weblogic servers.

In a company setting, the IT group was looked at as a bunch of introverted, cranky people that sat in the basement of their company and considered a business process to be some kernel running on a UNIX server.   Most companies shoved their IT team under the Finance group, since all IT was is a cost to the company with no value and/or revenue to the bottom line.

Something happened to Information Technology around 5-10 years ago that became a commonplace for startups as well as established Fortune 500 companies.    IT departments became service departments, technology solved business problems and IT professionals became cool.   Cloud Computing was the norm, not a buzz work, organizations took ITIL seriously to help streamline business and technology processes.    Servers were now called Services.

I have been in IT for over 25 years now and have adapted to the changing dynamics to my profession.   In addition to my IT career, I have tapped into social media/internet marketing, entrepreneurship and business networking.   I went from IT Geek to a extroverted business professional and have no problem talking to people.   I am not your typical IT professional.

I started looking at my IT team as a "company" that provided technology services to my customers (other departments at my company).  Called it DeSocio Technology Services.  

I mentored my team to take the sales approach to solving technology issues.   A customer makes a request, the technician makes the initial call to acknowledge that they received the request, the technician assesses the issue and implements a solution.   For the next step, the technician would follow-up with the customer and assure that all questions and details are accounted for and then document the outcome of the request.    The team would continue to follow-up with their customers on a regular basis to build a working relationship, understand the business and be more proactive to technology needs.    A customer survey would be forwarded to the requester who would provide honest feedback about the IT Service that was provided.

Sounds like a sales approach, huh?   Well, it is.   The changing dynamic is that IT Professionals are constantly selling their services and knowledge but also have to have the personal approach in supporting their customers.   If they don't, they will be replaced.

Running an IT Organization is Like Running a Business.   I know since I do both.   If your IT group doesn't perform up to expectations, your group will be out of business and/or replaced.  That is a fact. 

So if you are in IT, get out of your basement, put the Dell Server aside, go to a networking event and become an extrovert.  It will take your career to the next level and you will understand why a sales approach is important in today's IT business world.

Why Linkedin Is King When It Comes to Prospecting & Building Relationships

Just think, it's 1995, you have a business and you had to generate leads and increase sales or else your business fails.   So what do you do?

You get on the phone and dial for dollars hoping at least one person will not hang up on you.

Or you spend thousands of dollars for an advertisement in the local paper or a 30-second commercial on the local radio or TV Station.

Nothing like working harder for little gain.

It's 2017, cold-calling is about as advanced as a Blackberry.

Advertising?   Now it is Facebook Advertising or Google Advertising.   A much more advanced and engaged way to advertise your products & services.    The issue, social media advertising costs money, sometimes lots of money.

Enter Linkedin - the king of social media when it comes to prospecting leads and increase sales.

Here are a few ideas for you to use Linkedin to prospect leads more effectively, without costing a dime, except your time.    The focus on using the tools Linkedin provides you to increase social media engagement between you and potential leads.

• Linkedin is a huge, never-ending networking event so you would like to have a great 30-second commercial and include it in the Summary Statement in your profile.  If something like this isn't in your Linkedin Profile, you're at a competitive disadvantage.
• If you invest a minute or so each working day clicking the "Connect" button on the "People You May Know" list that Linkedin posts in your feed, you will broaden your network.
• Ask for introductions to people you don't not know via a 1st Level Connection, before requesting to connect to them.    Don't be one of those "LIONs"  Linkedin Open Networker!
• Build you Leads List spending five minutes a day investigating the connections of your contacts to see who you don't know personally, but like to meet.
• Follow and monitor your connection's Company Page.   It is great conversation starter with your connections to discuss what is happening with their companies.
• Post an update each day that is educational and adds value to your connections.  DO NOT SELL when you post updates.
• Spend five minutes a day joining relevant groups.  Groups are a great way to add value to others, share insights, and build out your network with prospects.
• Recognize the accomplishments of others by posting a message to them and tagging their name.
• Spend five minutes a day to write a recommendation for a connection or client.   Don't wait for someone to write a recommendation for you.  Take the initiative!

If you have any questions, follow our company page for AIMC Business Solutions and let's build our leads list together!

So You Think You Are an Entrepreneur? Really?

So you think you are an entrepreneur?

You claim to want to live your life under your own terms.

You have control of your financial destiny.

You have an amazing dream board detailing where you want to be.

You own a growing business that everyone wants a piece of.  Even Shark Tank called you.

Life is great.   Right?

Wrong.

Entrepreneurs have a thick skin, have gone through the worst rejection and have sometime hit rock bottom.  Some lived in their cars and were on public assistance!  

At the end of it all, they never quit.  They learned from their mistakes and moved on.

Entrepreneurs make a lot of mistakes.  Whether it is creating a bad product, entering into a bad business affiliation, or investing in a bad real estate deal.     However, they learn from their mistakes and some end up succeeding in their business venture.

Statistics out there state that only 5% of professionals are entrepreneurs.  Real Entrepreneurs.

The other 95% make their living in corporate America only or splitting their time in corporate and moonlighting as an entrepreneur.

Why do people "moonlight" as an entrepreneur?   Simply, it is the fear of the unknown.   They wonder what life would be like without a steady paycheck.

Do you want to know?   Ask the 5%.

So what does the 5% do that makes them an entrepreneur.

They work their ass off.

They never give up.

They network like crazy.

They have goals that turn into an action plan.

They consistently follow their action plan every single day.

They have passion in what they do.

They are positive.

Most of all, they take risks and know how to handle rejection.

Being an entrepreneur is one of the most rewarding things you can do in your life.  After all, you are only put on this earth once.

So what are the rewards of being an entrepreneur?

Personal and Spiritually -  Entrepreneurs are positive happy giving people always willing to help others.

Financially -  3 out of 4 entrepreneur/business owners are millionaires versus 1 in 10000 corporate employees.

Experience - Entrepreneurs has been there and done that.   They have gone through crisis after crisis that the 95% have never been through.  They have mentors to rely on.

So do you think you are an entrepreneur?  If so, join the club and let's be successful together.

A Health & Wellness New Years Resolution For You - Fitness - Supplements - Diet - Mindset

By now you should have a great idea what you are focusing on with the new year upon us.   Chances are, you would like to improve your health especially after eating all of those sweets during the holiday season.

When creating that old health & wellness new year resolution, it is not just eating healthy or going to the gym.   A well-rounded health & wellness objective plan is key to great health.

A great New Years Resolution should consist of the following objectives:
- A Fitness & Exercise Goal & Action Plan
- A Diet, and if needed a Weight Management Goal & Action Plan
- A Supplementation Plan
- Positive Mindset

So let's break down each objective:

- Fitness:     If you have never exercised, the first thing is to run it by your physician that you would like to start an exercise program and if approved, get an expert to help you,  The worst thing you want is to get hurt or complicate your health if you are on medications for other conditions.    Start with walking and light exercise to get your muscles used to movement and then progressively work toward more intense exercise.   If you are trying to lose weight, more reps and less weight.  If you are trying to gain weight, more weight and less reps.  Take short breaks between sets (under 30 seconds).  If you take too long of a break, it reduces the effect of the exercise program.   Finally, work out in the morning.  It helps reduce stress and increased mindset to get through the day.

- Diet:   The old saying that you need to eat less to lose weight is actually a myth.  Skipping meals is the worst thing you can do for better health.   The key is to eat small meals with a combo of dark vegetables and lean protein.   It is ok to have a healthy snack such as an apple in between meals.   If you have a hard time losing weight, you may need to go on weight loss program but it is always good to try out simply eating good foods low on sugar and less dairy and monitor your weight.  Here is a great guideline for some good Power Foods to add to your grocery list.

- Supplementation:   Back in the day, if you ate healthy natural foods, the thinking was that you really don't need vitamin supplements.   Unfortunately, the food today is more processed and unnatural than ever.   Even the soil used to grow food at your local farm is not as natural due to the chemicals used.   Since food today simply doesn't contain the vitamins you need, a supplement is a must for great health.  Selecting a supplement that is effective takes some research.     Supplements are absorbed in your small intestine and the nutrients are distributed into your blood stream.  So when selecting a supplement, liquid is best since a pill or tablet will need to break down in your stomach and are full of unnatural fillers.  The delivery system is important since you would want a vitamin supplement that is bio-degradable and enters your blood stream as soon as possible.   Think about this, you take your vitamins in the morning, you would want to get that boost of nutrients right away and not wait for a pill to break down in your stomach.   Finally, take your vitamins EVERY DAY so your body consistently gets the nutrients it needs to strengthen your immune system and maintain great health.   It does not make sense to skip days.

- Positive Mindset:  The most important objective of all.   Consistency, Determination and Perseverance are words to live by when it comes to your health.   Keep a journal to track your exercise program, diet plan and supplementation plan.    By dedicating the beginning of each day toward your health, you will reward yourself with getting through the toughest days with ease.    Personally after taking my vitamins and going to gym, I noticed I look at the day ahead with excitement and positive energy.  You can too if you have the determination to be healthy.   So set your goal to think positively every day!

That is it.  Yes, it is hard work to stay healthy, but it is worth it!   Please let me know how you are doing and if you need any help setting up a plan for your health!

Looking Ahead to 2017 - Some Positive Steps to Success

By now, you have probably received your share of Happy New Year wishes and email newsletters providing great advice on how to start the new year off on a positive and successful note.    As soon as the Christmas and Chanukah holidays are over, the next focus is the New Year ahead.

2016 was a challenging year from me personally and professionally in a good way.  But through adversity, I learned how to navigate through the bumps in life by always looking ahead and not to dwell on the past.   I made some mistakes, but rather looking at them from a negative perspective, I learn and spin it into a positive outcome.

Through my various business ventures, I am involved with Health/Wellness, Digital Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Business Networking.  What I like to do is provide a tip for each venture for you to focus on in 2017.

Health/Wellness:    Exercise in the morning whether it is at home, at the gym or going for a run and take a mutli-vitamin supplement.

By exercising in the morning, you are kick starting your day by being less stressed, more alert, and full of positive energy.   If you wait till after work, you are more likely to skip working out and go through a stressful day.   I have noticed since I have been exclusively working out in the morning,  I have leveraged my time for resulting producing activities in the evening.

Finally, take a multi-vitamin supplement in the morning.    By taking a good vitamin, you are strengthening your immune system and will allow your body to recover from your workout and the stresses of the previous day.   Unfortunately, most food today and especially your breakfast cereal do not have the vitamins you need to get through the day.


Digital Marketing:   Keep it positive and offer advice to your social media connections.

Unfortunately events in 2016 brought out the worst in people especially with the US Presidential Election going on and it was reflected in the social media posts..  Social Media has exposed the worst side of the First Amendment.

Going into 2017, follow a simple strategy, if what you like to post is negative and can offend anyone, do not post it.  It is that simple.   Instead post something that is positive and encouraging.   If you have a skill such as financial advice or how to exercise, provide some tips for your connections.




Entrepreneurship:  Even if you have a day job, start a side business.

You hear the stats all the time.  3 out of 4 millionaires have multiple streams of income or no job is safe anymore.   We are now in an entrepreneur economy and we are not going back.   The days of working 9 to 5 at the same job and then going home to watch TV or have a hobby and expecting Social Security and that 401k to cover retirement are OVER.   I experience it all the time, good friends of mine at the same job for years and years and they look at me like I am some crazy unstable person with multiple ventures and going from job to job.   But that is today's reality.

Do you have a hobby or a drive to dictate what you earn.  Do you want to have control of your own financial destiny?   If so, start a side business alongside your day job.  It is that simple.  With the internet today, you can do anything from anywhere.   What the side business will allow you to do is build another income that can be used toward retirement or investments such as real estate while the day job pays the bills.   There are so many options out there for side businesses whether it is consulting or network marketing or even owning a traditional business.   If you like, contact me if you like to discuss some options.



Business Networking:  Go to networking events even if you have never been and make friends.

Just like I mentioned in the entrepreneur section of my blog, we are in a different economy now.  The traditional way to connect with people and to look for work has changed.   Gone are the days of looking through a newspaper or on monster.com for your next opportunity.   You have to network at events to meet professionals and build great relationships.  It is extremely likely that your next opportunity will come from someone you met at a networking event.

Everyone at networking events are there for the same reason, to meet professionals and build relationships with like minded professionals.  So with the new year upon us, make 2017 the year you attend at least one networking event a month and build that contact list.   Linkedin is the best social network to track the people you meet and stay connected to them.  Finally, join my group on Facebook and contact me if you need help getting started in the world of business networking.

So hopefully,  I was able to provide some great tips to start the year for you.  It will be exciting year ahead with lots of great change.  Let's connect and help each other out and be successful together!

Networking Tips From Yours Truly - In My Own Words

Ever since I had an epiphany back in 2007 that my professional world is changing and that I will need to always keep my options open for success, I have networked with other professionals.   It started at my alma mater, Northeastern University, going to the Alumni networking events and meeting entrepreneurs for the first time along side corporate professionals.  It was a whole new world, that led me to become an entrepreneur myself and start various businesses alongside my primary career in IT.  Over time, I went to more networking events managed by various organizations in Greater Boston and then eventually I started my own group called Mass Professional Networking.     So, I have had some experience including meeting people from all walks of life and with different motives for going to networking events.

What I like to do now is share some observations and tips on how to conduct yourself and be prepared when going to a business networking event.

First, it is a business networking event, not a place to find a date.  

 
Recently I have met younger female entrepreneurs that were really green (no business cards - I will get to that later) when it comes to networking that seem to put their guard up when a male tries to introduce themselves.  Um, you are at a business networking event, it is not a social "pick you up" event.   My tip here if you are married or in a relationship, mention your significant other in conversation and focus on questions about their profession and why they are at the event.   And guys, look at the ladies in the eyes, not "below the eyes".  Show respect and you will get their respect.



Second, a networking event is not a place to get buzzed on booze.  

Yes, you may need a drink to loosen up and build confidence, but I have seen people get kicked out of an event or say inappropriate things after having a few too many.  Think, would you get drunk at work?   Going to a networking event is for work, so take it easy on the alcohol.



Third,  have a game plan before you go to a networking event. 

 
What is the reason you are going? What are you focusing on if you have multiple businesses/ professions.   If you meet me, one of the first questions I ask is what are your goals at the event, so I will be able to add value and help that person out.   An example, if you are a realtor, you may want to meet a real estate lawyer or a mortgage broker.



Fourth, bring business cards!  

I was at an event recently and met about 20 people and only 5 had business cards.   The whole goal of a networking event is to meet other business professionals and follow-up with any contact that you may want to do business with.  How can that happen if you don't have your business card with you?



Fifth, mingle.   

You didn't go to a networking event to stay in a close circle talking to your friends.  You go to networking events to focus on people that you don't know and expand your network.  You never know who you will meet.   When chatting with someone else, stand in a V format so that another person can come over and join the conversation.   If you don't want to talk to anyone, then you shouldn't be at the event.


Sixth tip, don't be shy and stand by yourself.    

Everyone is normally at a networking event for the same reason and want to meet you.  The best places to mingle is by the food or near the front of the event.   Walk around and observe people and I bet someone will reach out and shake your hand and start a conversation with you.



Seventh, don't be a salesman.    

I have met countless people where the first ten minutes they blurt out their scripted sales pitch and why their product or service is best and I find myself looking at my watch, my phone or the food, hoping they would stop.   Only give your thirty second elevator pitch when asked.  I will say it again, when asked.    Introduce each other and ask why they are at the networking event and bring up another topic like sports or weather.  Make the conversation natural, not one-sided.

My final tip is go to an event with the intention to help others.  Whether you have a product or service to help someone or know someone that can help, chances are that something will come out of every relationship you build through an introduction at a networking event.

I hope I was able to shed some light on what to do at a business networking event.   I have been out there for a while now and have seen it all.  It is what make this time in our lives so exciting.   Happy Networking!

2016 - What A Year and What About 2017?

It is absolutely insane that another year has gone by and what a year it was!

We lost some amazing musical talent from David Bowie to Prince to Leonard Cohen to more recently George Michael.

We had the most controversial US Presidential Election in recent memory which unfortunately has divided our country more than ever.

On a personal level, it was a sad year where I lost my dear mother-in-law and sister-in-law within four months.    We are doing better but it is always tough to lose close family members.  You never know when you are going to lose someone close so it is always important to be nice and respect your family and friends.

The old saying is to always focus on the positive, even when you are faced with adversity and 2016 was no stranger to adversity.

On a positive note, 2016 was a great year from me professionally.  I continued to enjoy working as an IT Director at a leading behavior health company in Boston.  My business ventures continue to grow and I am learning a lot more about business and marketing.   My networking group, Mass Professional Networking, had a great year with increased attendance and awareness by leading publications such as the Boston Globe and others.   AIMC Business Solutions has expanded its offerings to companies including the debut of SHOP Local.

Looking ahead to 2017, I am looking forward to taking my businesses to the next level, in particular my amazing business with Market America.   I feel it is getting to crunch time to find the right people to partner with and build an amazing organization.   I am also looking to take AIMC Business Solutions and AIMC Health Solutions to the next level and expand the knowledge of our amazing and effective products and services.   Finally, Mass Professional Networking and the new DeSocial Connector will be in place to help me connect my business colleagues to what they need.     All of this on top of my day job as an IT Director in Boston.

Ok, that is it from a business perspective.   Breath.

So what about the year ahead?

More importantly, I would like to focus more this coming year on building relationships and helping others.   Years and years of networking and "moonlighting as an entrepreneur" has solidified what I have known all along.  It is about the relationships, following up and making sure you are there for others.   2017 will be all about being there for others, being a positive influence and being determined to succeed.    I have the framework in place,   It is a matter of just doing it.