Here's our first feature:

Rayven Perkins is the author/webmaster of Direct Sales Supplies a website dedicated to helping those in direct sales and network marketing gain the training and tools they need to be a success. She is also the leader of the largest and fastest growing team in her direct sales company, Jerky Direct, and has aspirations of taking over the world, one bag of shredded buffalo at a time. Right now she’ll settle for America.

Her favorite thing in the world is travel; her family spent most of the last 8 years traveling full-time in their RV. And though her children have talked her into settling down to be “normal” while they are in high school, she is looking forward to globetrotting in a few years. Currently, she is planning a trip to Antarctica to celebrate her 40th birthday.

I met Rayven Perkins at the first Beachpreneurs Retreat in 2013. She showed up not knowing anyone but was ready to rock and roll, and did she ever!

At the time (a year ago) her niche / focus was split between Stay at Home Moms and Direct Sales. She had a huge following already, and was already paying her mortgage with meat snacks. Go figure. But she wanted to grow her income streams beyond just meat. (Although the meat is quite tasty and I even signed up to get some delicious meat snacks every month, too .)

I digress. She showed up at the beach house, and was earning a good living between her meat company, Adsense and advertising, and a few small template products that she had in place. She had a great foundation, but wasn't growing as quickly as she'd have liked to.

She also avoided the camera like crazy (even though she's beautiful) and did not have a recent picture on ANY of her sites.

After that first event, she started evolving right before our eyes.

She wasn't able to attend the March 2014 event, but was at our Beachpreneurs Conference in St. Pete and came to the Retreat last week in October.

Fast forward a year from her first retreat and she's in the middle of a huge product launch with an amazing program for her market — and is even producing VIDEOS showing herself (not some stage professional voiceover junk).

Watch it and tell me what you think.

Click here to see the next video in her series

(Hint – she's creating her launch pages with this tool.)

Rayven also has the following:

• Direct Sales Supplies & Templates
• A great affiliate program. If you reach this market, I have good news. Rayven has an affiliate program. Just head over here and look for the link in the top nav “Affiliates” for info.
• And, of course, there are her delicious meat snacks.

About Rayven's Experience at the Beach Retreat:

Rayven was kind enough to record a quick video sharing why she decided to go to Beachprenuers Mastermind Retreat and how it impacted her business.

If you'd like to join us at the beach… 

• Come to Daytona in February – we will have a blast!
• Apply for the Ladies Only Beach Mastermind Retreat next March 

See you soon!

Warmly,
Nicole

PS. Show your current or future #Beachpreneur pride with one of our cute shirts. 

#BEACHPRENEURS My Life Shirt by beachpreneurs
Look at custom shirts online at Zazzle

This week I asked our panel of experts…

“Last week we talked about events. Tell me about your home life.

If you attend events, what do you have in place so that you can travel? Basically what's working for you?”

I've been traveling more than usual this year to events, as I mentioned in last week's post: How Many Events Do Successful Entrepreneurs Attend in a Year?.

While going to events is definitely a big way for me to grow my business, it can also be difficult to juggle home life, too. So, if you're curious about that – keep reading.

Lou Bortone of Video in a Day says:

As long as we plan ahead, my wife and I are able to coordinate our schedules and child-care so that I can attend events once a month or so.

For me, it all comes down to advance planning and making sure I'm not missing any big family events or kids sporting events. (Not easy when your teenage baseball star has 70 games per year!)

David Perdew of NAMS Free Weekly Training says:

My wife is very conservative in some ways. Especially when it comes to spending money. I love that about her.

So, in the beginning when I wanted to go to my first live event, she asked how much it would cost.

I laid it out, but then told her why it wouldn’t cost anything eventually. It would make us money.

When I showed her the income directly generated from the first live event, she asked where I was going next?

So, proof of concept – even to the spouse and family – is the KEY to making event travel easy at home. Just be open and honest about that.

Secondly, make sure your business still runs without you for a few days.

1) Have an “operations manager.” Could be one hour a day or 40 hours per week, depending on how big and complex your business is. A good virtual assistant can step in if you don’t need someone on a regular basis.

2) Have someone monitor your support desk. This too depends on how large your business is. That’s one of the reasons we use Zendesk for our support.

3) Keep a mobile device with you so you can respond to emergencies. But just remember, your definition of emergency may vary from your “staff” definition, so be clear about the expectations.

Get these things in place and you’re ready to go.

Kristen Eckstein of Self Publish on Demand says:

I travel – a lot. Thankfully I have a very understanding husband who lets me leave for a week at a time so I can hang out with my amazing entrepreneur friends and come back with crazy cool ideas to implement for our business. And it helps that we work together full-time, and every couple that's together 24/7 needs a break once in a while.

In the past two months I've been to Atlanta for the NAMS conference, the beach for a long weekend with my hubby, I'm heading to the mountains for a short weekend retreat, and Florida for almost an entire week of masterminding.

Next year I already have a two-week trip planned to Ireland, where I'll have internet and will be doing a lot of sight-seeing, so I won't be glued to my computer full-time like I normally am.

I also have a team. I couldn't travel and attend events the way I do without my handy VAs, programming team, etc. When I leave the country I make sure I have internet connectivity and check email at least once per day just to stay on top of things. And I put auto responders (out of office) in place that let anyone emailing know I'm gone and when to expect my return. If I'm somewhere without internet, no big deal, because my “public” email address is filtered through one of my amazing VAs and I give her a boilerplate message to send people who want to speak to me. I also use a calendar system to schedule appointments, so people can instantly see when I'll be back and when I'm available.

Whew – that was a lot! Here it is in easy bullet points for you:

• I set autoresponders for my emails that let everyone know when I'm going to be away and when to expect a response. These autoresponders start about a week before I leave so all my in-process clients know what to expect as well.
• I give the VA who handles my public email a boilerplate response to give anyone who contacts me for information or to set up a time to chat. This response includes a link to my calendar so they don't feel ignored and can reserve a time as soon as I'm back.
• My hubby stays home when I go to business events. This means the design work he's responsible for on our clients' books still gets completed, and I can email proofs to them remotely through tools like DropBox. In other words, just because I'm out of the office doesn't mean all work halts for our clients.

I highly recommend you get a public email filtered through a VA. This has been great, especially when I'm out of the country or on a business cruise where there's little to no internet connection.

Jeanette S. Cates, PhD of Plan Your Online Business says:

Travel is an easy choice for me because all I need to do is walk out the door. Let me explain why.

My husband and I have been married for 44 years. Through the years we have both had jobs where we traveled a LOT. And we agreed early on that we were both adults and could function independently. Both of us can cook, clean, do laundry and love our kids equally well, although not always in the same way. But just because we don't do it the same doesn't make it any less effective.

We reared our children to be the same way. When they had an event or game, they were responsible for making sure they had a ride, whether from us or a friend's parents. I didn't try to control who was going where once they were over 10. Instead, they each posted their schedule on the central calendar. Each girl (we have 3) was responsible for having a clean uniform, clean clothes for school, and anything else they needed. They asked for our help if they needed it, but they knew that it was their responsibility.

Even though the children are grown and rearing our wonderful grandchildren, the same sense of self-responsibility remains. I don't need to shop, cook, clean or make any other arrangements to leave town. I just need to make sure my clothes are clean and I have a ride to and from the airport. Meanwhile, while I'm out of town I don't need to worry that my husband is starving or doing without clean clothes. He's an independent man who can take care of himself.

Once you establish the “adult” perspective, it makes travel a pleasure for everyone involved!

Kelly McCausey of Solo Smarts Podcast says:

Ever since I became an empty nester, meaning my son grew up and moved out, I've known I didn't like living alone. When I owned my own home I always had younger women renting a room from me. It's not that I need to be chatty, I've just always loved knowing someone else was around.

Well, when I moved down state to be closer to family I chose not to buy another house and rented a duplex for awhile. I had one roommate for a few months but she experienced a job loss and had to make a change. Left on my own again I decided to explore other options. To make a long story short, I found a great place in a beautiful neighborhood where I could be “the roommate” for a change. I rent a fantastic (and giant) room from another empty nester. The home is big, comfortable and close to everything I need.

This means I can travel without any concern for what's happening back home and I love it! It's a perfect arrangement for this season in my life.

Sometimes I miss having ‘my own place' by those feelings are fleeting. There are just too many advantages to not being the one in charge LOL!

Nicole Dean of .. here! .. says:

Well, I asked the question because I am always looking for ways to make it easier on my family when I travel.

I can't do much about how much they miss me, but I can try to streamline as much as possible for things to run smoothly while I'm gone.

Here are a few things that I do.

1. Use Google Calendar & Google Apps.

I don't even remember life prior to Google calendar and I never want to live without it ever (EVER) again. My husband and I both have shared calendars with all of the kids' stuff on it. Those are synced to my phone and his, too, so I know when they have Doctor's appointments or have to go to the Orthodontist – and he does, too.  That means that, when I'm gone, he can make sure our daughter gets to her Chorus practices and to her Dance classes without missing a step. It's truly made my life tons less stressful and it means we argue less, too.

2. Outsource to My Team.

The others mentioned this, too, but I also have a support staff and a main project manager who can handle anything that comes up in my business while I'm gone.  That doesn't really impact my family as much as it makes it possible for me to keep things running and enjoy my trips.

3. Outsource around My Home.

I have a cleaning crew that comes every week and a lawn service, too. That helps things to keep running while I'm gone.

4. Try to Host Some Local Events.

This year, I'm holding one event close to home: Beachpreneurs – Ladies Mastermind Retreat.

I chose to have it close to home for a few reasons. One of which was so that I was nearby in case my family needed anything. But also so they can come by and go SUP'ing at the beach while I'm here, too.

5. Involve my Husband and Kids in my Other Life.

I think it's most difficult on my husband than it is on the kids. He misses me and worries about me while I'm gone.  That's one reason why I've been making an effort for him to get to know more of my work friends that I travel with and go see. In about the last year, he's met David Perdew, Bob Jenkins, Therese Sparby, Connie Green, and he's visited more with Tracy Roberts. So, I think it helps to be able to put faces with the names and he's feeling better about it.

The kids now also know if I'm traveling to see Miss Tracy who she is because she's stayed here at my home and we've been to hers (and she's cooked dinner for us).

6. Speaking of Dinner, I Do Batch Cooking.

I've talked about this before – and I think I have an Expert Briefs coming up where I'll talk about this topic – but I love love love batch cooking.

If I'm going to make a batch of my famous Black Bean soup, I'll make a HUGE batch. It takes about the same amount of effort, but then I can freeze the excess in single serving containers so it's waiting for us when it's dinner time and we are looking for something healthy to eat.

Same with lasagna. It takes nearly the same effort to make 8 trays of lasagna as it does to make one. So, why not use the food processor and make enough to freeze and eat later?

Dinner's in the freezer – and it's healthy (and cheap!).

What about you?

Do you have any tips or tricks or suggestions for me and my readers for handling this situation?

Warmly,
Nicole Dean

PS. Want to connect in person? Here's where I'll be –

• October 2013: Beachpreneurs, Pensacola Beach, FL (I’m Co-Hosting with Kelly McCausey) This is a ladies only weekend business mastermind and retreat being held in a 9 bedroom house on the beautiful beaches of Pensacola Beach. Click here for Details.

• January 12-19th, 2014: Marketers Cruise I’ve put this off for years because the cruise is LONG, but I have finally decided to make it happen. Click here for Details.

• February 6-9, 2014: NAMS, Atlanta (I’m Teaching) Why I like this event...  NAMS is family. I look forward to it every 6 months and wouldn’t miss it for the world.  The instructors are amazing, warm people. The students are, too. I couldn’t ask for a more enjoyable way to spend a weekend. Click here for Details

• April 8-10, 2014: Ray Edwards (I’m Planning on Attending) Details coming soon.

• May 16-18, 2014: Exposure & Profit, Toronto, CA (I’m Keynote) Click here for Details.

• June 2014: Earn1kaDay, Vegas (I’m Teaching) Click here for Details (get recordings from last year)

• July 31st-August 3rd, 2014: NAMS, Atlanta, GA  Why I like this event...  NAMS is family. I look forward to it every 6 months and wouldn’t miss it for the world.  The instructors are amazing, warm people. The students are, too. I couldn’t ask for a more enjoyable way to spend a weekend. Click here for Details and Tickets for the February Event (July isn’t for sale yet)

IMPORTANT!!!! –>  If you attend any of the events on this page, be sure to come up and introduce yourself and let me know that you’re on my list or read my blog or whatever! I would love to meet you!
But, be careful, I’m a hugger.<– IMPORTANT

I've been traveling more than usual this year to live events (seminars, conferences, etc). So, this week, I asked my friends the following.

“How many events do you attend in a year?
What types?
How do you choose which ones are worth your time and effort?”

I think you'll find their answers interesting.

Lou Bortone of Video in a Day says:

I usually attend about 10 events and conferences per year. It used to be a lot more, but I've gotten very selective (and I don't want to spend my life on airplanes!)

My “filter” is three-fold:

1. Will I be speaking or presenting at the event?
2. Is the audience primarily my target market?
3. Will there be karaoke? (Kidding, but I do prefer events with fun peeps!)

The main consideration is whether or not I'll be speaking. If not, I usually turn down the event. The exception is if I'm in a coaching program or mastermind group that has meetings and events. Obviously, if I'm paying for a big mastermind program, I'll make every effort to attend…

David Perdew of NAMS says:

Not Enough!

To tell the truth, I’m not sure we can attend enough live events.

People complain about not having enough money to attend live events, but if you’re not making 10 times the cost of going to a live event immediately following the live event, then you’re not doing it right.

Two things:

1) Go for free (I’ll explain how…)

2) Focus on profit

I’ve been to a live event every month since April this year (except May).

Not only have they all been free (yes, I paid for all my tickets…), but each has made me tons of money.

When I decide to go, I’m committed. When I’m committed, I tell people about it. When I tell people about it, I use an affiliate link to get my money back even before I go. Always. That’s how I make sure I’m not paying out of pocket for any event – i.e. Go for FREE!

Then, there’s profit…

When I attend an event, I look for someone – at least one person that I can JV with on a cool promotion that’s good for my folks. Then I mail my community about that opportunity and Voila! Cash in the inbox.

Much more cash than the cost of the event – much more. My average this year has been about 10 times the cost of the event.

Sometimes, I schedule two Joint Venture promotions.

That’s the primary benefit – immediate cash.

The long-term benefits are ongoing relationships.

I’m not a natural networker, so it’s a little bit of work for me to stick my hand out and introduce myself to people I don’t know. But once I do that, I can talk to anyone.

And out of nervousness, I talk too much.

Then, I have to remind myself it’s time to listen and ask questions.

Watch me at the next event. You’ll see this pattern in me.

Know your patterns too and go to events – lots of them, especially NAMS from Feb. 7-9 – to meet the right people and increase your income.

The relationships you build at events turn into business profit faster than anything else I’ve ever done.

Video from of our Weekend Retreat at David's Cabin in the Woods:

Note: Seconds 42-45 crack me up every time I watch this.

Kristen Eckstein of Self Publish on Demand says:

How many events I attend each year varies based on:

• how many I'm asked to come speak at
• the ones I regularly attend whether I'm speaking or not
• special events put on by my coaches like mastermind retreats.

Most years I attend and/or speak at about one event each month, so up to 12 per year.

The types of events I attend are the ones where my target audience hangs out. Before I defined who my target audience was, I wasted time, energy and money attending events that did nothing for me or my business. Now that I know who my audience is, I go to business conferences and events where entrepreneurs hang out and develop working partnerships.

Specifically, my favorites of these events are the NAMS (Novice to Advanced Marketing Systems) workshop and small mastermind retreats such as Bob Jenkins' Hotseat Holidays and Nicole Dean's and Kelly McCausey's Beachpreneur weekends. The relationships formed at these particular events have catapulted my success in the past few years. I would not be as far as I am today without them.

You may wonder why I don't attend author events… after all, I am a book coach. My specialty is in non-fiction business books. The few author conferences I've attended have had hardly any business-minded attendees. Only business-minded attendees understand what power a book used as a marketing tool can give their reputation, credibility, and bottom line. Typical “authors” want to write – and nothing else. They aren't my audience, even though people may think they are. (Of course, if I get asked to speak at one of these events I may consider going for that one out of every 10 in the audience who is in my target market.)

I encourage you to figure out exactly who your target audience is, then schedule at least one event per quarter to check out. If you find an event that's extra amazing for you, such as I did with NAMS, make sure you attend as many of those recurring events as possible. The more you attend, the deeper relationships will form.

Oh and if you're struggling with finding out who your target audience is, I (of course) recently authored a Kindle book for that… Author's Quick Guide to Finding Your Target Market. No more excuses!

Fun picture from NAMS (after hours):

Jeanette S. Cates, PhD of Plan Your Online Business says:

I used to attend 6-12 events per year, but in recent years I have cut back a lot. Part of that was personal choice and part was because there comes a point in your business when you don't need to be at a lot of events unless you are speaking.

In the past couple of years I have attended only 2-3 events per year – Jim Edward's JimBoat, Armand Morin's live events and Product University with Robert Plank and Lance Tomashiro. I know them all personally, enjoy their teaching styles and am inspired to action from their events.

I've also attended a lot of “live” events online. It's more comfortable, more convenient, a better use of my time. And I can keep my travel time for vacations! But it does require focus and discipline to be sure you actually “attend” with your attention and action.

Each time an event is offered I look carefully at the agenda and who is presenting each topic. Then I ask myself –

• Do I need to know this for my business right now?
• Is this the best person I know to learn from on this topic?
• Is there an advantage to meeting the presenter in person, if I don't already know them?
• Is there enough content in this event that it makes the trip worthwhile?

I believe it comes down to where you are in your business, how much you enjoy travel, and what you need to learn. Regardless of those considerations, attending live events is a MUST if you want to build your business.

Connie Ragen Green of Affiliate Marketing Case Studies says:

I currently attend or speak at about ten events each year. My all time high was in 2010 when I was at sixteen events, and two of those were my own.

Being able to connect with people face to face has helped me to grow my business bigger than I could ever have imagined.

During my first two years online – 2006 and 2007 – I did not go to any live events. I held the belief that I could not afford it, I did not need to leave home, and that it would not be worth my time, energy, and investment! Was I sure wrong!

My first event was in the spring of 2008 in Atlanta. It was costly for me to purchase my ticket, pay for the flight across country from Los Angeles to Atlanta, and to stay in the hotel. I did not know anyone there, and when I saw almost a thousand people I felt like going back to my room to hide. I'm an introvert and was not comfortable with all those people.

I managed to make a friend, and together we made it through the first day. Then something magical happened and we both started having fun! The result was that I connected with many people whom I would not have met otherwise, learned so much from the presenters, and even earned some money within a few weeks because of affiliate links I shared.

These days I'm asked to speak at several events each year and also host my own live workshops. You MUST attend some live events, and choose the ones that will help you to achieve your goals.

San Francisco Pic with Connie (BEST. WEEKEND. EVER.):

Kelly McCausey of Solo Smarts Podcast says:

When I put my suitcase away for a long winter's nap at the end of October, I will have traveled eight times in 2013.

Here'w where I've been:

• January: Traffic & Conversion Summit in San Francisco, CA
• February: NAMS9 in Atlanta, GA
• June: Meetup on the Beach in Destin, FL
• July: Earn 1K a Day in Las Vegas, NV
• August: NAMS10 in Atlanta, GA
• September: Marketing Mayhem Live 2013
• October: Weekend Marketer Live in Las Vegas, NV
• October: Beachpreneurs in Pensacola Beach, FL

I've enjoyed the travel immensely. Airports are starting to feel like home and I certainly loved my first experience with First Class.

Meeting new people and deepening existing relationships has been an important benefit.

Looking forward to 2014, I would love to aim to travel at least once each month – if I can find events that appeal to me. (IE: Help me meet new people!)

So far I know I'll be attending NAMS in February and August and very likely visiting Las Vegas again for Earn 1K a Day  in June. And I do know where I'll be In May: In Toronoto, CA hosting my own multi-speaker event, Exposure & Profit!

Gratuitous cute picture of Nik & Kelly:

Nicole Dean of .. here! .. says:

Wow! Great answers everyone.

My husband is not teaching right now, so I've been traveling more than usual to boost my connections and my business in the next year.

In fact, I keep my suitcase half packed with duplicates of certain things just to make my life easier.

I normally don't have this busy of a travel schedule. My kids don't like me to be gone too often. But, I do attend a handful of premium conferences during the year.

However, right now I'm on overdrive a bit. Here's where I'll be…

• October 2013: Beachpreneurs, Pensacola Beach, FL (I'm Co-Hosting with Kelly McCausey) This is a ladies only weekend business mastermind and retreat being held in a 9 bedroom house on the beautiful beaches of Pensacola Beach. Click here for Details.

• January 12-19th, 2014: Marketers Cruise I've put this off for years because the cruise is LONG, but I have finally decided to make it happen. Click here for Details.

• February 6-9, 2014: NAMS, Atlanta (I'm Teaching) Why I like this event...  NAMS is family. I look forward to it every 6 months and wouldn't miss it for the world.  The instructors are amazing, warm people. The students are, too. I couldn't ask for a more enjoyable way to spend a weekend. Click here for Details

• April 8-10, 2014: Ray Edwards (I'm Planning on Attending) Details coming soon.

• May 16-18, 2014: Exposure & Profit, Toronto, CA (I’m Keynote) Click here for Details.

• June 2014: Earn1kaDay, Vegas (I'm Teaching) Click here for Details (get recordings from last year)

• July 31st-August 3rd, 2014: NAMS, Atlanta, GA  Why I like this event...  NAMS is family. I look forward to it every 6 months and wouldn't miss it for the world.  The instructors are amazing, warm people. The students are, too. I couldn't ask for a more enjoyable way to spend a weekend. Click here for Details and Tickets for the February Event (July isn't for sale yet)

IMPORTANT!!!! –>  If you attend any of the events on this page, be sure to come up and introduce yourself and let me know that you're on my list or read my blog or whatever! I would love to meet you!
But, be careful, I'm a hugger. <– IMPORTANT

What about You?

• How many events do you attend?
• What benefits do you get?
• How do you choose which ones to go to and which to pass on?
• Got any coming up that I might want to attend?

Warmly,

Nicole Dean

PS. Here are some related blog posts about live events…

• What Should I Pack for an Internet Marketing Conference?
• What Should I Wear to an Internet Marketing Conference?
• Networking the Right Way (NAMS)

Want to learn why I attend Live Events? Here you go…

Click here to read this report “Benefits of Attending Live Events”

I was in Orlando with my good friend, Kelly McCausey at a crazy event a few weeks ago. We were roomies and all weekend long, she kept saying she wanted to do a private and exclusive event and with me.

I kept pondering what would make it special and putting off a decision- much to Kelly's frustration.

You see, Kelly is VERY laser focused when she has her mind set on something. This is a big part of the reason she's such a good coach.

Seriously, the last thing before bed and first words out of her mouth in the morning were “So what are we going to do?” lol.

I adore her and we're really good for each other as she challenges me (and I her) regularly.

I think that it was the last night of the event when I finally said “I KNOW WHAT WOULD BE SPECIAL!” And, we decided to do a ladies only weekend retreat at the beach near my house.

The reasons we are having it here:

1. I know this area very well, having lived here for 10 years.
2. My husband, my mom, and my personal assistant are nearby to run errands for me if necessary – from grabbing anything I missed (or that guests need) from the store, to taking guests to and from the airport.
3. We have Stand up Paddleboards and bikes at home – for added fun.
4. Pensacola Beach is NOT a big party beach. It's family friendly, small(ish) and beautiful.

Kelly and I looked online and found a GORGEOUS 9 bedroom 6.5 bath house with pool and wifi. So, we decided to jump on it.

If you want the whole story take a peek at this hangout that Kelly and I did last week:

Here are some more details:

WHAT IS IT?

An all female business mastermind and retreat! We'll cook together, pamper and play together, plot and plan together… we'll all leave the house equipped for greater things!

Food will be healthy healthy healthy so your body and mind will be energized.

WHERE IS IT?

We have a booked a fantastic house right on beautiful Pensacola Beach with individual beds for 15 women. This is the perfect size group for a powerful mastermind – large enough to be truly stimulating but intimate enough that everyone gets time and attention.

WHO’S IT FOR?

Female entrepreneurs craving extra support to breakthrough to the next level in business. Bloggers, Coaches, Authors, Information & Affiliate Marketers – if you use the internet to reach your market, you'll love this event!

WHAT DOES THE PRICE INCLUDE?

1. Your room in the beautiful home on the beach for all nights
2. Healthy food all weekend
3. Drinks of choice (coffee in the morning through a cocktail or two… or three at night)
4. Coaching and all business activities all weekend
5. Entertainment

PLUS all Guests Also Get these Bonuses:

• Self Study Learning $497 Bonus! Every attendee will receive Kelly’s 2013 Silver Key with access to nearly $1000 in self study and group coaching resources.
• A $297.00 Video Bonus! Every attendee has the opportunity to shoot a 60 Second Promotional Video, Professionally Designed by Angel Sheer!
• Special $247.00 Bonus! Every attendee will receive a Complimentary Ticket to Kelly’s Exposure & Profit Event (May 17-18) in Toronto, Canada.
• Another Event $297.00 Bonus! Every attendee will receive a Complimentary Ticket to Betsy’s Passion to Prosperity Live Event  in Montgomery, AL
• More coming soon…

Here's where you can find more info:

• ABOUT US
• MEET OUR ATTENDEES
• WHY YOU?
• THE DOLPHIN HOUSE
• SCHEDULE
• TRAVEL
• FAQ

And, here's where to register -> Join Us!

If you  have any questions, you can contact Kelly to see if this is a good fit for you or not.  We also have a Facebook Event where you can ask questions, too.

So that's been my latest adventure.

What about you?

• Got any big crazy plans like this?
• Are you surrounded by friends who challenge you in good ways?

Let's talk.

Warmly,
Nicole Dean

It’s another Expert Briefs, where I ask really smart business owners to answer your burning questions.

This weekend, I'm flying to Vegas to speak at Dennis Beckers Earn1kADay event and in August I fly to Atlanta to speak at David Perdew's NAMS. I'm always looking for good events to go to, because EVERY TIME I attend a conference, I make more money. Period.

Let me repeat that.

Every time I attend a business or marketing conference,
I.Make.More.Money.

But, there are mistakes to be made along the way (some of which I've made myself).

That's why, this week I asked our panel of experts…

“Do you attend “in person” events and conferences?

If so, what are some faux pas that you see people making that you'd like to warn others about so they don't repeat them?”

I think you'll find the responses interesting. I did.

Jeanette S. Cates, PhD of Plan Your Online Business says:

In person events: YES! I do attend in-person events and conferences and I LOVE them! In fact, I've written multiple articles on how to get the most out of live events. And I've encouraged people for years to attend them. Nothing takes the place of meeting and talking with people face-to-face.

Here are the three biggest mistakes I see people making:

– Focusing only on trying to impress the “big names” who are there. There are a LOT of movers and shakers who don't necessarily want to be on stage. Cultivate those relationships!

– Trying to sell something at the conference. First it's not your conference. You didn't pay to get all of those people there, so you don't have the right to sell them anything. And others who are attending are not there to buy from you. They want to meet you and get to know you.

– Failing to follow up with people you met at the conference. An easy way to do it is to get a picture with each person you'd like to contact, as well as their business card. Turn that picture of the two of you into a postcard and mail it with a quick note. You WILL be remembered fondly for years to come!

Want to Get More Organized in your Business?

Jeanette has got you covered

Connie Ragen Green of Affiliate Marketing Case Studies says:

I've now attended, presented at, or hosted more than sixty live events since 2008! I know I've changed quite a bit during this time, as have the events, but there are always some people who do not seem to ‘get it' when it comes to connecting with people in person.

One fellow has a reputation for asking people to give him an ‘on the spot' video testimonial soon after meeting. He once followed me into the elevator and then got off on my floor, still waving his camera in my face. I finally had to tell him I needed to use the bathroom to get him to go away. If someone is not ready for their ‘closeup' with you, give them some space and don't ask them a second time.

Another faux pas is to collect business cards and add people to your list without their permission. It then becomes awkward to ask them to take you off the list because they've created a group within their email account and there is no way to unsubscribe. Allow people to get to know you and they will seek you out to join your list if it makes sense for them.

Connie knows Affiliate Marketing!

click here to learn her secrets

“Love this post? Pin it!”

Kelly McCausey of Solo Smarts Podcast says:

I don't have a lot of event experience unless we count church. Actually, I credit church events for the ease I felt the first time I went to the NAMS Workshop. I knew most people around me were feeling out of their comfort zone so I didn't read anything into their lack of overt friendliness. Even though I was there for the first time, I practiced simple hospitality. I said hello to strangers, I asked questions about them and worked to be open and approachable. Because I made the effort, I received the reward of leaving with lots of new friendships.

It's not fair to call it a faux pas but it is a mistake to wait for others to reach out to you. You could end up waiting a long time!

Some tips for being more engaged:

Stay present. Don't shrink into yourself, looking down at your phone or your computer all of the time. Look up and around, make eye contact and smile at people.

Stay in public. Don't hide in your hotel room. You will regret it if you do. That's not how memories are made. The lobby and the hallways are where the magic happens.

Stay uncomfortable. Introducing yourself to a stranger is uncomfortable – do it anyways. Joining a small group of people is uncomfortable – do it anyways. Thanking a speaker for their message is uncomfortable – do it anyways!

Stay up late. Some of the best discussions with the greatest ‘take home value' for me have started late at night. People relax and let go of the day's stresses. This is when you may get to have some amazing one on one time with someone who might otherwise be surrounded by people. There'll be plenty of time to sleep when you go home – so make the most of the time you have.

Need Focus?

Check out The Power of a Focused Business

Lynette Chandler of Tech Based Marketing says:

I often look forward to lunch time during these events because you get to catch up with people you know and also get to know new people. There's something good about breaking bread together. So, during a recent event, I was a little taken aback (to say the least) when one person at the table criticized the hosts' choice of food and drink. Because I happen to choose the same drink that day (Coke), she looked at it and added “No offense to you”. You know, this topic aside, I detest that phrase for reasons I won't get into here.

Look, I get it. We should all strive to eat better, pay more attention to our health. If this person took time to get to know me, she would know, so was I. The only reason I chose what I did is because during a weekend event, I like to kick back and enjoy foods I don't normally eat. Consider it a diet holiday. It's one thing to caution a friend about their food but quite another when you're at an event trying to meet new people and network. Apparently, this was not in her radar either because she quit talking to everyone else and chose to stay in her hotel room for the rest of the event.

In short:

1. It's not cool to criticize people's food choices. You don't know where they've been and where they are. Even if it kills you to think what they might be putting in their body, put a lid on it.
2. If you're going to hole up in your hotel room, you might as well stay home (and save your money). This coming from an introvert who is often drained by being around people. It means a lot.
3. Momma always said, never criticize your host at the table.
4. It's not cool to talk about others negatively because you don't know who's friends with whom.

Want techie help?

Check out Lynette

Karon Thackston of Step-by-Step Copywriting Course says:

Absolutely! Not only is it a lot of fun, I get to keep up to date with the latest strategies within my area of expertise and also for the growth of my own business.

Whether I'm teaching or learning (or both), it's a great environment for creating or expanding relationships in a way that you simply can't do online.

When you think Copywriting, you think of Karon.
Check out her Step-by-Step Copywriting Course if you want to ramp up your skills.

Rachel Rofe of How To Get Every Book You Write Onto The First Page Of Kindle says:

I do attend in person events.

I think one of the biggest “faux pas” people make is when they ask if they can “pick my brain”.

I totally understand wanting to learn more, but coming to someone and asking for (or feeling entitled to) what that person has taken years to learn… without offering anything in return… is less than spectacular.

Sure, I'm all about sharing knowledge. But sometimes being asked rapid fire questions can totally drain one's energy. I liken the “can I pick your brain” to an energy vampire/ or a leech.

To be taken, taken, taken from… does not a relationship make. And in my opinion, conferences are for making relationships.

I've made SO MANY amazing friendships from conferences, where I just came in looking to make friends and learn whatever was being taught at the seminar.

In addition, many people ended up sharing great information with me. However, that information was in a give-and-take manner, not just a take, take, take.

Same thing with JV's – I've met some EXCELLENT JV partners there, but I made relationships first. I didn't walk up to people and ask for them to promote me, without any kind of established relationship or them knowing what I'm even about.

(I guess that'd be another big faux pas – I have had more people than I can remember come up to me and ask me to promote for them, without us even having as much as a conversation.)

I LOVE going to conferences where people are “cool” – they're just there to relate to everyone on a human to human level. Coming in with that attitude ends up getting them a LOT MORE than coming in and looking to see what can be sucked from people.

Debbie Drum of Become an iPublisher says:

I try to attend 2-3 live events per year. Live events are amazing networking opportunities, and it’s fun to get away and talk for HOURS about internet marketing and growing a business online.

There is one faux pas that I see people making all the time at live events. I know it right when I see it because I’ve actually made the mistake myself and sometimes it’s really hard not to make it – but there are ways out of it if you realize it’s happening to you – let me explain the scenario…

You might be talking to someone and you may or may not know 100% who that person is, but you’ve connected and you are involved in a conversation. Then in the background you see someone who you’ve been waiting and dying to talk to walking alone and available to for you to say hello. What do you do? You are already talking to someone and they are mid sentence but you see an opportunity to talk with your favorite marketer and this is your chance to introduce yourself!!

Before you decide what to do – there are certain things to consider:

– First, the person you are already engaged in conversation with might be someone with more influence than you think. Don’t dismiss that person because there might be huge opportunity with the person you are speaking with and you just don’t know it yet. You don’t want to dismiss that person for someone else because it is very rude and could leave a bad taste in his/her mouth. Be very conscious of this.

– Second, the person you are currently talking to might be a “nobody today” but a “huge somebody” tomorrow. This person can make it big and he or she will definitely remember you if you hit it off with a great conversation. I know this for a fact because I’ve been in a situation at my first live conference where I met people who were only make hundreds of dollars online per month and now they are making thousands upon thousands!! You want to remain friends with those people FOREVER!!

– Third, there is truth to the fact that you could be completely wasting your time with your current conversation and you need to run to your favorite marketer while you have your chance. You may never have this chance again! You need to make this determination and then politely excuse yourself.

The rudest thing is to be engaged in a conversation with someone and not be listening to them entirely because you are too concerned with what is going on elsewhere. There is so much that is going on at conferences and you don’t want to miss anything – but you need to cherish the people you meet because you just never know what that relationship can turn into and how you can help each other grow and succeed. Everyone wants to meet their favorite marketers but connecting with people at, below or a bit above your level is imperative to your success.

Meet Debbie. (She's really smart!)

Check out how to Become an iPublisher

Dennis Becker of the Earn1KaDay Insider Club says:

Yes, I do attend, but not enough, which probably sounds not so great coming from someone who runs events also.

Actually, every time I've attended an event, whether running, speaking, or just sitting in the audience, I can look back on it in a few months and shake my head (in a good way) at how much it benefited me.

Some things to avoid…

1. Don't be shy. Yes, there will be people there who know others and will be renewing acquaintances, but don't be afraid to go up to those you want to know better and introduce yourself.

2. Be sure to come with your “elevator pitch” ready, your 15-or 30-second response to “so what do you do?”. Trust me, you'll be asked many times if you're following my suggestion in point 1, or even if you're not.

3. Don't just go back to the hotel room after the sessions end. Repeat, don't just go back to the hotel room after the sessions end. I know, you want to phone home, you want to check emails, you want to go on Facebook. You've made an investment in this event, don't throw that money down the toilet.

4. I've gone to big events (500+ attendees), medium events (around 200 or so) and smaller events (less than 100). The smaller and medium ones are better if run well. If it isn't the first time it's been done, see if you can find others that went before and see what they think.

5. Don't latch onto one person and stay with him or her for the whole time. Move around. Go to lunch with different people than you go to dinner with or sit next to the bar with. Or at least sit next to someone different next time.

6. Yes, you'll be exhausted at the end if you do everything right. There will be time to catch up on your sleep later.

7. Don't market to your new acquaintances unless they ask you to. This isn't about making money AT the event, it's about building relationships for the long term.

8. If you can't hold your liquor without being obnoxious, slow down your consumption. Sure, people might remember you later, but not in a good way. I have stories I could tell, but won't. Besides, if you have all your senses going for you, you never know what secrets some of the experienced people will be spilling. You don't want to miss them. Of course I'm talking about the after hours sessions.

9. Don't worry if you can't make every session. If there's something that doesn't apply to you, roll call will not be taken. You can use that time to catch up on emails or better yet, hang out in the hall outside the conference room and network with others.

10. Arrive early to the event, leave the day after. You don't want to miss opportunities.

11. Don't worry so much about the agenda, worry about who will be there. This isn't about what you'll learn so much as it's about whose radar you can get on for the future. The agenda is the bonus.

Dennis Rocks!

Be sure to check out Dennis’ group over at Earn1KaDay

Lain Ehmann of Crafting Your Business, Step-by-Step says:

They don't talk to people outside their “circle.” And if they're newcomers, they don't realize that most other people are newcomers, too! Be the first to say hello and reach out to others. Everyone appreciates a friendly face or a warm “Hello.”

Also, they attend classes at the wrong level, either over- or under-estimating their skills. Talk with someone who's been to the conference before, or email the conference organizer to get a good idea of what the levels are and where they think you'd fit.

Finally, they don't take action! Pages full of notes mean nothing if you don't act on what you learn.

Lain Can Show you How to Craft Your Business.

Learn more here -> Crafting Your Business, Step-by-Step

Susanne Myers of  Daily Affiliate Tasks says:

I’m sure there are all sorts of faux pas we’ve seen at live events, but the one that might cost you the most is to stay at a place other then the hotel where the event is taking place. If you’re living close by, you may be tempted to just commute from home. If money is tight and the hotel isn’t exactly cheap, you may be tempted to find a cheaper room near by. Do yourself a favor and don’t.

Much of the value you’re going to get from a Live Event is having conversations and forming friendships outside the regular sessions. Much of this takes place after hours around the hotel bar, the pool etc. These are the times when I’ve had conversations that resulted in JVs, helped me solve a major stumbling block I was coming across and helped me form relationships that continue to help me grow my business years after the event took place.

Each time I attend a conference, I run across a few people who end up not staying at the hotel. In many cases, they are people I would have liked to connect with, but wasn’t able to because by 11pm, they were already headed back to their hotel or home.

Attending live events isn’t cheap, but always worthwhile. If you’re going to attend, go ahead and spend a few extra dollars to stay at the hotel the event takes place in. This will allow you to take advantage of all sorts of extra networking opportunities.

And here’s a little extra tip. My biggest mistake in the beginning was not spending enough time socializing and networking after hours. I’m not a very social person (you could call me shy), and was just easier to hide out in my room. Don’t make that mistake. Go out there, introduce yourself to some new folks, have dinner with someone you don’t know and make the most of each event.

Are you an Affiliate Marketer?

Check out Susanne's Daily Affiliate Tasks program for a plan of what to do every day.

David Perdew of NAMS says:

Do I attend live events?

Yes…and No!

I used to attend a lot of live events until I got disgusted by the pitchfest quality.

Then, I stopped.

In 2004, I attended an event in Atlanta with about 1000 other people and I watched as 6 people “taught” for 15 minutes, then pitched a $2 to $3,000 product for 45 minutes.

One woman spent $7500 dollars that day on programs she would never use.

I felt like I was going to lose my lunch.

After attending half a dozen more events, I quit going altogether. That was a huge mistake.

The action was not at the pitchfest.

The real action was in the restaurant or the hallway or coffee shop. People were meeting, doing deals, and getting to know future partners.

I was not there.

Fast forward to 2008 and I decided to start my training workshop. Instructors would teach and we would focus on the students and implementation.

In the first couple of workshops, we pulled 12 hour days. I left no time for networking. And people were exhausted, but enthusiastic. But we didn't focus enough on networking.

Now, the NAMS event is a serious blend of training and networking. We try to make sure both are handled equally because they are equally important.

Coming to a live event and NOT networking is a huge mistake.

Walk in the door with your hand extended and a business card at the ready. And be sure your conversation is about the person you're talking with and what they do.

Don't talk about you and your stuff until asked.

And go to as many events (like NAMS) as possible. Even take in a few pitchfests because you'll still find people to network with.

And remember, as one of my favorite mentors, Keith Ferrazi, says on the title of his book “Never Eat Alone“.

Digging My Friend, David?

Check out his free training here:
Free Weekly Webinars

Nicole Dean of .. here! .. says:

It’s always interesting to me to read the responses. Oftentimes, the question that I had in my head is not what obviously came out.

A lot of really great things happen at events, but there is also plenty of room for faux pas.

Here are a few examples that I thought of… and as I typed these, it made me appreciate NAMS even more as the wonderful, warm, learning environment that it is!

1. Klutziness.

One of my friends (who is actually a regular on Expert Briefs) actually fell OFF the stage while in the middle of  a speech.

Lesson: While that was totally unintentional in her case and not really a faux pas, I’d like to use it as an example of “watch where you walk if you’re on stage”.  When stuff like that happens, get up and keep going.

2. Pride.

I’ve seen panels where one panelist will actually grab the microphone from another. Or they’ll argue in front of all of the attendees.

Lesson: Pump each other up every opportunity you have. Don’t bring each other down.

3.  Avoidance.

Some of the presenters at Internet Marketing conferences are internet marketers for a reason — they have social anxieties. So, there have been instances of speakers who hide during the entire weekend and only come out when it’s time to speak.

Lesson: If you’re asked to be a speaker, people are excited to meet you!

4. Timing.

Several times, I’ve been asked for interviews — while I was actually in a stall, taking a pee, between sessions.

Lesson: Wait until I’m done peeing please.

5. Total Stupidity.

Earlier this year, I went to an event where I was totally out of my comfort zone.  Being totally out of my comfort zone, I did a few strange things that I wouldn’t normally have done — and, worse, said something just wrong to one of the presenters. I don’t know how or why it came out of my mouth, but my mouth obviously bypassed my brain and my heart. I wish I could take it back.

Lesson: Don’t let yourself get over-tired, overwhelmed, and feeling puny and say something stupid like I did. (And, if you do, apologize like I did.)

6. Vulgarity.

I’ve been to a few events where the language was definitely above PG-13.

Lesson: Now, I’m no prude, but GEESH. It’s a business function. (That’s why I’ll only bring my mom and son to NAMS.)

7. Thoughtlessness.

If you take a bunch of pictures at an event, at least look through them before you load them up to the internet and start tagging them on Facebook. No one wants a picture of them posted where they’re scratching, picking, chewing, or heading into or out of the bathroom.

Lesson: Do unto others as you’d like them to do to you. If you see a picture where someone is bending over or you can see up their nose, either crop that out or delete the picture.

8. Assumptions.

I was at an event where the speakers did not have or chose not to wear nametags. I don’t know if it was because they assumed everyone would know who they were – or if it was a total oversight, but it made it very difficult to get to know people.

Lesson:  You might look different from your avatar. Please wear a nametag so I don’t feel uncomfortable getting to know you. I’ll wear mine.

9. Not taking pictures (or assuming others will).

I've come home from events where it seemed like the camera was in my face all weekend to find that not one picture of me was posted anywhere. I had no record of all of the fun from the event.

Lesson: Take pictures. Lots of them. You can't go back and get pictures later – it's too late.

10. Staying in a different hotel (or at home).

Always, if at all possible, stay at the hotel. That's where the magic happens. Trust me on this one.

Lesson: Be easily accessible in the evenings – and you'll be so glad that you did.

And, the biggest mistake of all …

11. NOT Attending Live Events.

They've totally made the difference for me between running a business and have a community and friends and JV partners and a living breathing business. Please take a chance and come.

All right. I think that’s enough venting for one afternoon.

If you’d like to meet me and hang out in a warm, supportive, friendly learning environment in August – I hope you’ll consider coming to NAMS. Info is below.

Have a GREAT day!

Warmly,

Nicole

I just returned from an amazing weekend at the NAMS Workshop in Atlanta where I spoke/taught as well as spent a bunch of time in the one-on-one room giving attendees 15 minute clarity sessions. I also got to relax and enjoy time with my friends and meet new friends, as well. (More on that, though, soon.)

As I was in the airport waiting to head back home, I thought of a great question.  This is what I asked.

“What is your biggest tip for those of you who fly often to make life easier, be more comfortable – and/or to earn the most out of your trips in the way of frequent flyer miles, etc?”

I hope you enjoy the responses. I did.

Rachel Rofe of How To Get Every Book You Write Onto The First Page Of Kindle says:

1. Get an AmEx Platinum card! This gets you into all their lounges at airports. SOOO great – you get outlets, extra room, business centers, free food/drinks, and lots of other goodies..

2. Those Xpress Spa stations at the airport = my favorite invention of the month. 25 minute manicure as you sit on an EPIC massage chair. Love.

3. If you go on American Airlines, splurge for the extra legroom and go for aisle 8. You get exit-row legroom (right behind first class) and you get off the plane sooner. (Side note: I got this entire row to myself. WOOHOO!)

Jeanette S. Cates, PhD of Plan Your Online Business says:

I consider travel time “my” time. So while others are stressing about a flight delay, I'm relaxing with a book I've been too busy to read or downloading a new app I can play with. That takes all the pressure out of the trip.

I also have a standard packing plan – for 3 day weekend events, my mastermind meetings, and week long trips. So when it's time to pack up, I print the appropriate packing list – and relax, knowing I won't forget anything.

I always check my bags. No sense in stressing about overhead space or working around things under my feet. If I'm traveling with a computer, I use a rolling bag to save wear and tear on my back. But increasingly I tuck my mini-ipad into my purse, pack the keyboard and we're off!

I use my noise cancelling earphones on the plane and generally start with a relaxation audio so that I'm in the right frame of mind for creative thinking. This time on the road is great for letting new ideas come out. But if you don't give yourself the “time space” you'll never get those deep ideas.

Enjoy the trip!

Kevin Riley of  Blogpreneur Training says:

Avoiding jetlag. I love traveling and have been taking intercontinental flights since I was a kid. One thing that I do, which IMO leaves me without any jetlag (I'll fly from Osaka to Switzerland – an 8 hour time difference – and easily adjust to the local time instantly), is to stay awake.

I stay awake most of the flight (with just a 1/2-hour catnap somewhere over Asia) and watch a ton of movies. I'll get inspired and start writing stuff in a notebook (my popular Recipe For Commercial Videos was conceived on a flight to Austria in 2008, when I saw a German commercial on the plane). I eat all the airplane meals (yes, I'm brave that way), have a few drinks (a little alcohol is always nice, but I don't get carried away – except for that one flight to Calgary in 1978), and I drink tons of water (get them from the tray coming around and help myself at the dispenser near the kitchen). Very important to stay well hydrated, as airplane air is dry.

When arriving at my destination, I do NOT go to sleep or even take a nap if it's still afternoon or early evening. I always stay up until 10-11 pm, no matter how tired I am. This way, I get a good sleep, wake up refreshed at the local time's morning, and get right into the swing of local time.

Mark Mason of LateNightIM.com says:

I travel all over the world for my day job. On any given week, you can find me podcasting from a hotel in Taipei, Taiwan or blogging from an airport in Bangalore, India. As a result, I am constantly on the lookout for power to charge my iDevices.

By far the best travel gear investment that I ever made was when I bought a HyperJuice battery. This external battery can charge my MacBook Air, my iPhone and my iPad (or any other USB device). I just charge it up before I leave home (or the hotel) and put it in my backpack. That way, I never run out of power on the go.

By the way, a great Swiss Backpack made for laptops is another travel godsend. Don't leave home without it.

Felicia Slattery of Signature Speech Secrets says:

As you know, I had a rough go of it with my health last year, and all work, including business (or other travel) screeched to a halt. However, I found my frequent travel tip also worked for my stays in the hospital as well.

In my career as a professional speaker, I have traveled to loads of events across the country. And I find a few things with regard to packing make life so much more fun!

1. Master Travel List
Several years ago, while I was on an organizational kick, I read about creating master lists for everything. The only one that's stuck with me to this day are my travel lists. I even created travel lists for my kids so when we go on family vacations I can simply print a list for each child and check things off. For my work, it's been such a time-saver because instead of re-inventing the wheel every single time I have to get ready to leave, I simply print my list – which I like printed on actual paper rather than on a device – and start checking off what I need as I pack it.

2. Pre-Packed Toiletry Bag
The one time I didn't follow through on this, I ended up speaking at an event right after the amazing, late, great Zig Ziglar; we were in Florida (humid-city, as you know) and my wild wavy hair was without hair spray. So on the most important speaking day of my career, I had a bad hair day. I learned to never again skip this tip for myself. Of course before a trip, things are crazy busy, and there's always last minute work things going on. But after a trip, you can arrive home and take a deep breath and regroup. Part of my regrouping and unpacking process involves assessing everything in my toiletry bag and refilling or replacing everything before putting it back into my closet. Then it is ready to go for the next trip and all I have to do is pull it out and pack it. Part of this tip includes having doubles of everything I need; one for daily use, one for travel use. So I have my regular daily toothbrush, for example, and I have another toothbrush already packed in my toiletry bag. Same with deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, gel, razor, shaving cream, dental floss, toothpaste, soap, comb, brush, and yes hair spray. If I'm running low on anything, I add it to my grocery shopping list and when I get home from shopping, I refill or replace what's needed and then store the bag until the next trip. Then before a trip when I'm running around at the last minute with everything else, I don't have to worry about stopping somewhere to pick up more deodorant. It's ready to go and totally stress-free!

3. Pre-Packed Suitcase
Now I don't go as far as having all my clothes in a bag ready to go, but like the toiletry bag, I have a few things I bring with me on every trip. So I re-stock when I get home from the trip, so when it comes time to add all my clothes, I don't have less to remember. I keep a set of workout clothes packed, a bathing suit for the hotel's hot tub after a long day, a pair of my favorite comfy socks to wear at night – because every hotel room is freezing to me, etc. That means fewer items for my master list and fewer things to throw together when I have to leave.

4. Pre-Packed Briefcase/Business Bag
Are you seeing a theme here? After I get home I re-stock my business cards, neatly arrange my extension cords that I threw in the bag after the event while rushing to get back to the airport, check to see if my pens still have enough ink, and make sure I have a clean notebook ready to go for the next time I have to make a dash out the door for the airport.

Dr. Mani of How to Set Goals says:

My biggest tip is really a “non-tip”. Before flying, ask yourself if you really have to! The answer to that question is “No” so often, that I've rarely found myself on board an airplane for anything other than on a holiday trip

We often hurry and rush around to keep “doing” stuff that we rarely ask if there's an alternative or work-around. With communications technology becoming so wonderful,
there are few circumstances where, at least as an online entrepreneur, you're forced to travel anywhere at all.

Connie Ragen Green of Affiliate Marketing Case Studies says:

The smartest thing I did last year was to apply for a security clearance through the Global Entry – http://www.globalentry.gov/ – program. This program is open to all United States citizens and the cost is only one hundred dollars every five years.

I travel extensively these days, and during 2012 I flew thirty-six times, including domestic travel and international travel to China, Thailand, Finland, Costa Rica, and the United Kingdom. This program made it all go smoothly and saved me lots of time, while also reducing the stress that can be associated with flying these days. Many times I do not have to remove my shoes, jacket, or laptop, and I no longer wait in line or fill out customs forms.

More and more airports around the world are now recognizing this program, and I do not think it is too much to ask of us to take this extra step to ensure our safety and the safety of others.

Karon Thackston of Step-by-Step Copywriting Course says:

Oftentimes, what I DON'T take is as important as what I do take. I'm not known for packing light (all those shoes take up space!) so I try and save inches wherever I can. The better hotels have great brands of shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, etc. in the room so I leave all those bottles at home and use what's provided by Marriott, Hilton or wherever I'm staying.

I also don't bring a lot of cash. Practically every place along the way takes credit or debit cards from the parking lot to the food kiosks/restaurants at the airports. I carry a little moola for tips and whatnot then put everything else on the card. Not only do I not have to worry about running out of cash or paying ungodly ATM fees, but I get extra bonus points for using my cards. Plus, it's very easy to keep up with my expenses since they all appear on my statement every month.

Nicole Dean of .. here! .. says:

I don't fly as much as some of my friends, but I do travel more than many people (averaging 6-12 trips per year between personal/family and professional), so I've developed systems to make the travel less stressful.

Standard Printable Packing List. I have a standard packing list that I print before every trip.  I cross off items as I put them into my backpack or suitcase and it ensure that I don't do anything silly like leave my cell phone, charger, favorite lip gloss, wine opener or prescription behind. I highly recommend you do this as forgetting something important can stress out your trip as you're running around trying to get it replaced.

Standard Luggage. I use the same backpack (with the laptop pocket in it) for every trip. That way I know which pocket has my passport and itinerary, which pocket contains my earplugs, where my money is, and where I can quickly access my iPad to read on the flight.

Standard Travel Clothing/Patterns. Personally I like routine when I travel. I check my suitcase now so that I can put all my liquids (shampoo, etc.)  in it and not have to worry about it. I wear sneakers/gym shoes because it's easy to run through an airport in comfy shoes and my feet are warmer on the plane. I pack my belt so I don't have to take it off during screening. I have my prescription in my backpack in case my suitcase gets lost. All the usual stuff – just makes it much easier for me to relax, especially when coming home from an event when my brain is super tired.

Know What Stresses you Out. If going through security stresses you, then just check your main suitcase and strip down to essentials before you get into the line. (Taking everything out of your pockets, removing your belt, etc., before you even head into the security area.) For me, the noisiness of the plane rattles me. Therefore I actually wear double earplugs. I have one set in my ears. One pair over them. This relaxes me quite a bit.

Always Be Earning the Points. One thing I'm definitely slow on the uptake on is earning points. This past weekend, Connie and David Perdew each invited me up to the Concierge area at the Marriott where we were staying to talk. There was food and service up there and personal guests were welcome. DUH. I stay there often enough now that I certainly *should* be racking up points with them. I'm now all signed up.

Get Loyalty Points at the Airport. I just found out this weekend that some of the airports have loyalty cards. So if you fly through Atlanta (or to Atlanta) a lot like I do, I just register with them and I can earn Delta miles or other miles just for buying stuff like water or meals. Cool. http://thanksagain.com/ for instance, http://thanksagain.com/atl is the Atlanta one.

Well that's what I've got for you today off the top of my head. What is your biggest tip for relaxed travel when going to events like NAMS?

By the way, I hope to see you there in August. I'll be there! Click here to join me.

Best of luck.
Nicole

But WHAT the heck is NAMS? And, who is it for?

The problem is that the benefits were not clearly stated on the sales page – as far as what members actually receive.

So, I recorded a quick video to share the “behind the scenes scoop” as to what you actually get as a NAMS member. JUST the 30 information-packed webinars in the members' area alone are totally worth joining, in my humble opinion.

Check it out here:

If you have ever thought of joining, go to this page to see what's included. (I think you'll be shocked!)
Click here to Check out NAMS (use this coupon code for 85% off: MYNAMS85)

In a nutshell, members get…

1. Weekly Hour Long Business Building Webinars with awesome people. You also get replays, a PDF of the Presentations, & an Audio Download to listen on the road.
2. 50 New Niche PLR Articles every Month (10 PLR Articles in 5 Different Niches)
3. Ongoing Access to More Than 1300 Tutorial Videos on Various Aspects of Running an Online Business
4. Unique Monthly Graphics Package for Your Business Use
5. Monthly Royalty Free Music for Your Business. Need a podcast intro or video background music? That's what this is for.
6. Monthly Turnkey Niche Sites Complete with 25 Pages of Content
7. Private forum access for brainstorming
8. Member blogs with “do follow” links so you can repost some of your content over there to get links back to your site.
9. Member Showcase. List your websites in their exclusive member directory.
10. Launch and Joint Venture Calendar to help you to recruit affiliates.
11. Best Discount on the Niche Affiliate Marketing System Workshop held twice per year in Atlanta – where you can meet cool people like ME!

If that sounds like something you need, go to this page to see what's included:
Click here to check out NAMS (Use this coupon code for 85% off: MYNAMS85)

ok, but who should NOT join NAMS?

1. If you're spending and spending and not actually taking the time to learn the material and implement. Then hold off for now and please don't sign up. (Go through what you've already bought first.)
2. If you do not wish to be any of the following: an affiliate marketer, online business owner, information marketer, or blogger. (Then it's not a good fit.)
3. If you're just wanting to throw up a bunch of quick websites and watch the easy money roll in. (That's not quite how it works…)

Is NAMS perfect? The Be-All End-All Solution You Need?

Nah. There are definitely things I'd improve, but David is working on a lot of that behind the scenes – like organizing the tons of content on the site so it's easier to navigate.

It is, however, a place that I trust to send my own mother. And there aren't a whole lot of those places online.

Click here to Check out NAMS (use this coupon code for 85% off: MYNAMS85)

I hope you like it.

Warmly,
Nicole Dean

I always have a hard time promoting NAMS, simply because I can't seem to express in words what I feel about how special this event is.

NAMS is family. Plain and simple.

There's no other event that I look forward to as much.

My NAMS Timeline

• NAMS 2 (August 2009): I first discovered NAMS in August 2009. I bought a ticket and went as an attendee to meet the instructors (and, of course, learn a thing or two). I hung out and learned lots and had a great time. I was asked during that event to come back as faculty. (The man in charge, who started NAMS, David Perdew, knew that I worked with Jimmy D. Brown as his Affiliate Manager. David was also familiar with my work here on my blog and my EasyPLR.com site – as well as knowing that I'm a fun person with integrity. So, I was in.)

Here's a pic of me and David taken in 2010:

• NAMS 3 (Jan. 2010): I went again in January 2010 to NAMS 3 as a presenter (and was so impressed that I brought my mom with me) – and had a fabulous time once again.
• NAMS 4 (August 2010): I went to NAMS 4 (my 3rd time) and made tons of memories. In fact, I laughed so hard on a number of occasions that I gave myself a headache.
• NAMS 5 (January 2011): NAMS 5 was virtual. (Pout pout.) I did a presentation as a webinar, but, unfortunately wasn't able to hang with my friends since there was no live event.
• NAMS 6 (August 2011): And, now I just got home from NAMS 6. I brought my mom again, as well as my 14 year old son. There are not many events that I would bring my family to, unfortunately. But this is DIFFERENT.
• NAMS 7 (January 2012):  I can't WAIT for NAMS 7 in February!

What Makes NAMS Different from other Conferences?

As someone who’s been to bunches of seminars and conferences about Internet Marketing & How to Make Money Online – NAMS is unique and stands apart in many ways.

1. This is a Workshop as opposed to a Seminar.

The difference is that there are presenters, but the attendees are encouraged to accomplish goals during the day. Prizes are even awarded for those who take initiative and make progress.

2. Meet a Variety of Rockstar Faculty Members.

There is a huge faculty so you have the opportunity to hear things from different perspectives which is something that I love. Usually there are about 20 presenters, plus normally at least 8 aides (helpers) who are also knowledgeable marketers who are on hand to help the attendees.

3. Choose the right level for you. (Not one size fits all.)

The workshop is broken up into four rooms where newbies, beginners, intermediates, and advanced level marketers are challenged. There's the 100 (beginners), 200 (have a blog and need to make more aff sales), 300 (setting up more streams of income, including product creation), 400 (assets, outsourcing, systems, etc). Beginners never feel ‘dumb’ and Advanced students aren’t allowed to get bored.

4. There is no “pitching” allowed by the presenters.

Several seminars that I’ve attended were laughable because every single speaker ended his/her presentation with a sales pitch for a $2000-$5000 product that was “essential” and “breakthrough” and would change your life forever. I take that back. It would have been laughable if it hadn’t been so sad. It doesn’t sit well with me to see beginners writing check after check for materials that they do NOT need. It would be such a better investment for them to spend that money outsourcing and getting things DONE. (Stepping off the soapbox.)

Anyway, at NAMS, the presenters are there to help, not to sell, although we are able to have a “where you can learn more” slide at the end of our presentation with a special offer or just a link to our blog. If we meet at NAMS and you ask me about my products, I’ll gladly tell you where you can learn more about them, but I will not be up at the front of the room, telling you that you must spend your money on my stuff or be doomed to fail. In fact, I may recommend that you do not purchase my products if it's not a good fit for any reason.

5. AWESOME presenters. Big Hearts & Big Smarts!

Seriously. One thing that I love about David is that he doesn’t just look for smart people, but he finds positive, energetic, warm people who truly care. And, I’m absolutely honored to be included in that lineup for this event. As I mentioned, the presenters are great people and they are all highly approachable. You will not feel intimidated to talk with them, nor is it “cliquey”. The whole point is that the faculty is expected to be approachable during the weekend.

6. The networking simply rocks.

I haven't been able to figure out why this is the case, but the attendees are fabulous. The participants are smart, funny, good people and I always learn just as much by talking with them as I do from listening to the presentations.  In fact, some of the best brainstorming happens after hours.

Here's a pic in my hotel room at about 1 am during NAMS 4 –

Lain Ehmann, me, Kristen Eckstein

Overall, it's a very fun weekend. I'll be posting pics soon, but, in the meantime, wanted to make sure you could be part of this amazing community at whatever level you choose.

Let me quickly give you some options so you can pick what's right for you.

---

Option #1: My NAMS Membership  with the Benefit of Attending the Live Event in February for Only $97

David Perdew is creating a very cool place where you can learn, network, and grow with other affiliate marketers – and right now you can get in for a discount

All of this is included:

• Monthly webinars with proven experts.
• Exclusive eBooks, special reports, and training modules.
• Special offers on upcoming events like the live NAMS workshop that I'm at that happens twice each year (you can attend for only $97 if you're a member)
• Access to a private forum where you can ask questions of people who can help you.
• Monthly Q & A sessions where your specific questions will be answered.
• Member site reviews, so you can see how your sites can be improved.

Why so cheap? He's in pre-launch mode right  now.

Here's how you can get in before the first price increase.

Go to:  I Wanna Be a NAMster, too! and enter coupon code: MYNAMS85

---

Option #2: Get the Recordings from Last Weekend ($97 for the next few days)

If you'd like to get access to the recordings to all of the presentations, go here now, and you can save $200 with coupon: IWASTHERE

It's three solid days of awesomeness.

My presentation in the 400 room was “Building Assets on the Web: Multiple Streams of Income without Madness” — Terry Dean actually BLOGGED about my presentation – including mentioning an idea that he's going to copy from me. WOW. I'm still giggling a little about that.

ok. So, if you want to be a fly on the wall and learn about conversion from Terry Dean, building assets from me,
monetization from Bob “the Teacher” Jenkins – as well as Webinars from Paul Evans and a bunch more — check out this link:

Grab the NAMS 6 Recordings

Use Coupon Code: IWASTHERE to save $200!

---

Option #3: Buy a Ticket to NAMS 7 in January

The other way to attend is to purchase a ticket for NAMS 7 in February at full price. Here's the link to do that: NAMS 7 February (but again please note, with Option #1 you can get your ticket for a lot less).

I hope that helps tell you a little bit more about where I've been and what NAMS is all about.

I'll be posting more pictures soon!

Warmly,
Nicole Dean

Plus, I got to meet several of my customers. (Waving to you!)

I even hung out at the hotel gym with a customer who had
my undivided attention for the entire hour we exercised.
There will be NO sweaty-looking pictures of that, though! eek!
How'd that happen? Simple. She came up to me, told me that
she was a customer, and asked if I would have any time to chat
during the weekend. I said “Well, I've already got lunch plans,
but I'm going to the hotel gym after lunch. Want to meet me there?”
And, she said “Sure.” (Wow. Networking is so hard, right?)

If you're not attending live events yet – you are sooooo
missing out on money (and fun!). I get to meet customers,
find new affiliates, make deals, and build lasting relationships
at every event I've been to — even the bad ones. (Don't ask. lol!)

I know that it can be scary. I know it can be an expense.

But it is CRITICAL to growing your business quickly.

Each event I've gone to has directly increased my income
in some way. Either through the presentations, being able to
ask questions about things I was struggling with, or in meeting
people who ended up being friends (and promoting me).

My absolute favorite event to go to is the NAMS conference in Atlanta.

I've been to three of them and it's something I look forward to every six months.

Yes, even if you're a TOTAL beginner – you need to be there.

The next NAMS is coming up soon in Atlanta – and yes, I'll be there.
How to join me: Click here for Details

If you're a beginner, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions
and connect with others who you'll stay in contact with for years.

If you're at the intermediate level or feeling like you've
reached a plateau, you'll learn how to move past it.

And, if you're at an advanced level, you'll have the opportunity
to connect with all 25 instructors – who are all potential
JV partners for you.

It's a win, no matter where you are in your business.

Please come and meet me, Willie Crawford, Connie Green,
Susanne Myers, Paul Evans, Bob Jenkins,
Lynn Terry, and a slew of my other amazing friends.

• Bring your spouse.
• Bring your parents.
• Bring your favorite sibling.
• Bring your kids.

It's fun and learning for the whole family! (And, unlike some
events – it's clean so you don't have to worry about young
ears hearing things they shouldn't.)

Many people bring the people they love to NAMS. Not just once,
but every single time they go. I've brought my mom and my son. Bob Jenkins
brought his brother. Lynn Terry brought her daughter.

No excuses. Go to this page now – and make plans to attend. It can be a total game-changer for you.

Here's where you can learn more: Click here for Details

If you're coming to the NAMS conference, please let me know by commenting below so I can watch for you.

Have a fantastic day! You deserve it.

Warmly,
Nicole Dean

Well, I'm backing it.

I sent this note to my lists last week…

To sum it up — the January 2011 event will be virtual (totally online). But, the August 2011 one will be live and in person (and bigger and better than ever).

The cool thing is that you can get both for the price of one right now.

Here's the link to check it out: NAMS 2011

You can hang out with me, Lynn Terry, Willie Crawford, and a bunch more of my favorite peeps for the weekend. I look forward to it very much, and have gone through withdrawal every time I've gone home.

Unlike most marketing events – this one is family.

I'd love to meet you in person in August.

After I sent that mailing, I got a really good question from one of my customers:

Question for you?  Over the last couple years I keep hearing you and others talk about NAMS.  I didn't really think it was something I'd be interested until I just listened to this video (on the new sales page).

For 2011 I want to take affiliate marketing to the next level to produce recurring income.   I think this could be a step in the right direction.

Am I thinking correctly that this really is for beginners like myself?  I've been searching for some audio workshops to get started with affiliate marketing.  Again it sounds like this could be perfect.  It's a chunk of change so I'd love to get your feedback.

And this is the reply that I sent to her….

Yes, NAMS (the live event) has several tracks – beginner (levels 1&2), intermediate, and advanced. You'd get a ton of info. Some will soak in now, while other pieces will soak in the second or third time you go through the material.

The last NAMS was set up like this…

• Beginner Level 1 is for people who don't have a blog or anything yet.
• Beginner Level 2 is for people who have a niche and a blog and just aren't making any money.
• Intermediate gets into a higher level with video marketing and product creation.
• Advanced is about systems and growth.

David (Perdew) has said the August event will have 5 tracks, so not sure how it'll expand.

You'll also get the recordings for the previous NAMS events as well, too. (Not sure how long that'll last, though, but David mentions it in the sales video, so at this time you will.)

I think, if you CAN afford it and it isn't going to hurt you financially to get it, that you would certainly benefit. I actually brought my mom to the January NAMS (2010). She's a beginner blogger and really enjoyed it a lot, made some great connections, and learned a ton. She's actually starting to see more traffic to her blog, more sales, and is really excited about this upcoming year. (I'm proud of her. Can you tell?!)

If you want to learn affiliate marketing, I can't think of a better offer to recommend to you at this time.

I hope that helps.
N

Here are just a few of the instructors (other than me) that you can learn from at NAMS.

My Dear Friend & Brilliant Niche Marketer Susanne Myers. Learn more about Susanne Myers in this Interview	The Super Smart, Super Affiliate Lynn Terry. Learn more about Lynn Terry in this Interview
The Guru to the Gurus Willie Crawford  Learn more about Willie Crawford in this Interview	The Outstanding Paul Evans Learn more about Paul Evans in this Interview
The Awesome Article Marketer Jeff Herring  Learn more about Jeff Herring in this Interview	The Super Duper Bob “the Teacher” Jenkins  Learn more about Bob Jenkins in this Interview

Here's my link if you'd like to check it out:
NAMS 2011 Conference

And, because I keep getting questions about WHO should go to NAMS, let's see if this helps.

NAMS is not for you if any of these apply…

– Your focus is eBay or drop-shipping. As far as I know, those topics will not be covered.

– You want to make money but don't want to work or put in any effort.

– You blame “gurus” as the reason you're not making money yet, rather than looking at how you can improve.

– You're thinking of attending just so you can hand out business cards.

– You've spent your savings buying courses but haven't implemented anything. (I can't encourage people to spend money they don't have or to buy courses unless they're going to profit from them. )

NAMS may be right for you if some of these apply…

– You want to build a business online with affiliate marketing as a part of it and want to learn from awesome people.

– You're READY and willing to take action.

– You're a total beginner and want to start out right OR you've already got a blog and are making some money online and want to learn how to grow that into more.

– You're a service provider and need to figure out how to get some passive income.

– You want a total immersion experience where you can just focus and soak in a ton of info over the course of a few days without distraction.

– You would  like to go to an internet marketing event, and don't want to be sold to and asked to buy a bunch of stuff over the weekend.

– You want to meet positive people who actually understand what you're trying to do in your business and are willing to brainstorm with you.

– You want to make connections with affiliate marketers who might promote your products.

If you'd like to join us at NAMS – I'd love to meet you there.

Here's my link: NAMS 2011 Conference

If you have ANY questions about whether NAMS is for you, just post them below.

Warmly,
Nicole Dean