Selling doesn't come naturally to most, and it can feel intimidating and scary. The reality is that most everyone that works needs to know how to sell because in some capacity, in some way, they either directly or indirectly influence the company's sales volume. So the best way to get over the fear and intimidation is by being prepared. To be prepared, you have to have thorough knowledge, a winning game plan, and lots of practice. These things, coupled with "practicing by doing," will greatly diminish these hesitations. One thing to note: if someone in sales does not have at least a slight amount of nervousness, he/she has lost the edge and passion behind gaining a sale, so don't allow yourself to get complacent.

The social space is oftentimes an intimidating atmosphere for businesses. Promoting your platform can be challenging especially if you don’t know where to start, and then even more challenging when the algorithm changes. Having a social strategy is the only way to show up online with purpose. Read below for five tips to get your social media jump-started!

This past holiday season, my husband and I decided to take our 2 college-aged daughters and our 2 high-school-aged sons on a family trip in lieu of Christmas presents. After searching online for great holiday destinations, my husband and I decided on Quebec City, Canada. We thought a trip with experiences would have a longer lasting impression on them and would make great family memories. Lovely memories were accomplished along with so much more ~ a lesson from the heart.

We are in the era of personalization. The modern customer today is part of a very large, dispersed, and educated group. They will always, and should always, expect the best value for their dollar. To answer that customer expectation, businesses and brands need to work diligently on providing a personalized experience for their customers. Getting it right in as close to "real time" as possible is what is key. And the only way to do that successfully is by knowing your customers and their wants and needs. Providing relevant and helpful experiences that are tailored to each customer's needs will always inspire loyalty.