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BLOG Business Talk Radio   July 1 2020 Economic Development ~ https://conta.cc/2VxdXce Economic development! That's where people come spend money with us here in Houston rather than with someone someplace else. So, what do we have as Houstonians that others don't have so that people will continue to come spend money in Houston? I can easily answer that. Remember when Houston was referred to as "The Energy Capital Of The World"? I'm sure you do - it wasn't all that long ago. Houston was referred to as the energy capital of the world because of our many hydrocarbons activities - AKA "oil & gas." We had world leaders in "da earl bidnezz" calling Houston home. I started my professional career many, many years ago working with one of "The Seven Sisters" in the oil business. That was Pan American Petroleum Corporation, with the marketing arm, AMOCO, producing the 1st lead free gasoline in the world. Uh huh, I've been in research my entire career and have assisted in the discovery and advancement of many "firsts!" That's all history, so let's talk about something Houston can do now that will have people continue to come to Houston to spend their money. And, once again, it's an energy resource. This time it's entrepreneurial energy. Entrepreneurship can be taught. Uh huh, that's right! And we were the first kids in the country to demonstrate that business incubators - we had Houston's first and Texas' oldest - were teaching entrepreneurship starting in 1985. It became an overnight sensation! We proved we knew about teaching entrepreneurship because our incubator clients have won virtually ever award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally. So what does Houston have for economic development activities? If you want to start a business, grow a business, acquire a business or transfer a business, Houston is "the place" to do that! Join us on July 1st for your choice of a virtual morning business meeting via Skype (Houston Crossroads) or a traditional seated Business Building Breakfast and let us share with you our talents in independent economic development research that might be applicable with something you want to do as your first. June 24 2020 Ready to move forward ~ https://conta.cc/2N89Y1u Piece of cake! 1. Decide the what, then the how, then the when. 2. Have some targets, goals, ambitions, or intentions to accomplish change with a time-line. 3. No, business plan not needed: Bill Gates, Michael Dell, the late Steve Jobs (the list goes on and on) had no business plan. 4. This is what you have to work with (your personal resources): a) Time b) Money c) Ability d) Contacts e) Energy f) Attitude g) Integrity 5. You have attributes to decide how you utilize your resource mix: a) Intellect (also known as "smarts.") b) Quickness. c) Ability to accept input. 6. The final measure is your aptitude for the entrepreneurial process. a) Understanding and operating at risk. b) Self-confidence. c) Positive mental attitude. 7. What has made you successful? 8. What's next for you? Join us for your choice of a virtual morning business meeting via Skype or a seated Business Building Breakfast on June 24th and share with us what you're doing (or want to do) to move forward. June 17 2020 No Excuses ~ https://conta.cc/2Ap1ksF Over the years we've had opportunity to work with exceptional people. You know some of them. They've become household names in Houston. And we've discovered some common beliefs among them. Things like "quitting is not an option." "Attitude is everything." "Love what you do." "Believe in yourself." "If you don't get it right the first time, try, try again." These people motivate and inspire those around them. They encourage results not reasons and excuses are never an acceptable replacement! June 10 2020 Tough Times ~ https://conta.cc.2YgVUrr " . . . one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." Have we forgotten? Has this changed? Is it because of the Coronavirus? Lots of new and different things going on in our lives and across our country, eh? Riots, violence, looting - peace, prayer, passion. Please remember: Tough times don't last. Tough people do. And when you think you can, you can! We'll all get through this. Join us for a virtual morning business meeting on June 10th and share with us what you're doing to get through these tough times. June 3 2020 Predictions ~ https://conta.cc/3cq4I3n In these uncertain times we've been getting numerous questions regarding a multitude of empty office buildings and the high vacancy rate. Because of the importance of the questions we consulted our high accuracy "tell us the future" source. Some of you know It's the deluxe model, complete with swirling mists, and very reliable. The answers provided were complex and highly interesting. In particular it revealed that the "vacate the office" evolution has started and that an ever increasing number of people will remain working from home, with even more doing so in the future. And the trend will now be home offices, including the staff working for the really, really big companies. Sci-fi scenarios forecast that environmental change years ago. And communication technologies, very easy to use, have attained a level of sophistication that permits excellent simultaneous audio/visual conversations among dozens, scores or hundreds of people from a few yards to literally thousands of miles away. Don't be surprised as larger companies start providing increased compensation and improved hardware for work-from-home staff and special software will facilitate remote access to company data/information/communications keeping it secure. Consider the additional benefit of no drive time, vehicle use, parking requirements or transportation pollution. Watch and learn. Join us for a virtual morning business meeting on June 3rd and share with us what your company is doing to keep you working at home and away from the office. May 27 2020 Your Patience https://conta.cc/3d0q4VS for being so patient as we navigate through these unprecedented times! In my young (slightly over 3/4 a century) age I'm noticing the people around me are unequally dividing into two categories: A.) those who are taking all this in stride. and B.) those who want it all back to "normal." I congratulate those with the patience and flexibility to be accommodating to all the changes we're faced with and the ones yet to come. You are an inspiration to us all. Join us for a virtual morning business meeting on June 3rd and share with us how you've kept your poise. May 20 2020 Updates ~ https://conta.cc/2TmRLk7 We're happy to have you reading our weekly EntrepreNEWS during these trying times! Some of you know we've been publishing this informative newsletter for more than 25 years. <Waving to our long time readers.> Thank you for your loyalty and for keeping us informed of your preferences over the years! For you newbies, please be so kind as to take a moment and tell us what you'd like to be seeing more (or less) of in this publication. We'll start implementing your suggestions as received. Have an interesting article you've written? Send it to us and we'll see if we can include it in a future edition. Thinking of starting a business? Bring us your bright ideas. We can move you forward faster! It's no accident our startups have won virtually award for business growth in Houston. Some nationally! Some even internationally! We're available by telephone or Skype or join our virtual business development meetings on Wednesday mornings. May 13 2020 Recovery ~ https://conta.cc/2Wm1Ks0 So what's next for recovery? When can we all get back to work, or school or where-ever? Is the virus issue completely past or merely taking a little break to reappear even worse? Grumble! Stumble! Scratch our heads and mumble! Here's what's true! We don't really know what's ahead! What we do know is we'll get past it! Amen, Brothers and Sisters! We'll all make it! Some patience required, eh? Amen! May 6 2020 Anyone Can Do The Easy Stuff ~ https://conta.cc/2YCqugQ So the question lingers as to when we can resume our previously normal activities? Whenever we can all get out and about again without our face masks or social distancing will be our new normal and it will be within an economy that has been severely impacted by the virus!  No moderation there. A severe whammo has befallen us! Whew! Come share with us those things you've already implemented for recovery and we'll share them with a receptive audience! And let us all continue with our patience, trust that where there is a will there is a way, that this is Houston, Texas, USA and we shall prevail! April 29 2020 Making Your Money Machine ~ https://conta.cc/2xYWgdn During very tough times more than 37 years ago a young woman came to me asking instructions on building for herself a "money machine" to get her through the hardships. She was ready to have her own business so she could be independent and not have to rely on other companies. And it had to be something she enjoyed. She said it was to provide a product or a service that was wanted and needed by her future customers. Further, It must be challenging, interesting, gratifying, exciting, stimulating, worthy, and worthwhile . . . And it had to create for her solid, financial independence so she could keep doing it. So now you know about money machines. And that's what we do. We teach people how to build their own money machine.     It's not magic. It's a methodology that produces a predictable result. Your own business, that's enjoyable challenging, interesting, gratifying, exciting, stimulating, worthy, worthwhile and create solid, financial independence.   We're a not-for-profit cooperative association of independent business owners with many years of hands-on business experience. As business owners, we know a tad about financial independence.   As history, we brought you Houston's first business incubator (which became Texas' oldest), and the first Womens Business Center in the nation and the first virtual business accelerator in the world, and, just so you know, our start-up clients have won virtually every award for business growth in Houston - some nationally and even internationally. All without the first dime of grants, gifts, donations, contributions or public money. We are NOT your tax dollars at work. No brag. Just fact. Go look it up for yourself! Here's what people say about us. Have questions? Give us a call or connect on Skype or attend any of our Wednesday morning virtual meetings. You'll be glad you did! Remember, you can do anything you put your mind to and where there is a will, there is a way. So why not you - why not now? April 22 2020 Virtual Operations ~ https://conta.cc/2RIkTRU You may recall when I forecast that technology was having more and more things operating in the virtual mode with increased sales of products and services. And, for example, you may be working at home and communicating with your staff, co-workers, bosses and even customers/clients via smart phone, Go-To-Meeting, Zoom, Skype or any of the many other cloud-based programs permitting face-to-face and even group conversations. Make a note of things that will be changing in the future brought about by people working remotely. Things like increased vacant office space. Less travel time. Easier access to people in group meetings. We went virtual a number of years ago with our business accelerator, advisory board, and mentoring. We're even conducting our co-op business development meetings virtually. Technology has come a long way in making face-to-face point of contact more accessible, convenient and dependable and will continue to do so. April 15 2020 Time for change ~ https://conta.cc/2XnjLai Have some extra time on your hands these days? If so, put it to good use! Get started on that idea you've had bouncing around in your head for awhile. This may be destined as the perfect opportunity to make it real for yourself. Yuppers! Why not you - why not now? Join us for our Virtual Breakfast Wednesday and we'll share with you our successes in converting ideas into reality. Wednesday doesn't work for you? Then call, text or email. April 8 2020 Staying Positive in Negative Situations ~ https://conta.cc/3aNMY1M My. My. My. Life can certainly get complicated at times, eh? Like now, for instance, with this virus and all the lock-downs and self-sanctions. What are these situations doing to your lifestyle, company, business or career, friends and family? And how long before things return to a normal that will be completely different than the "normal" we were all accustomed to? In the face of adversity remember: Tough times don't last. Tough people do. And what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. You can do anything you put your mind to! We can and will certainly survive this epic tragedy and again go forth and prosper. Need an attitude adjustment? Join us for our Virtual Breakfast Wednesday and tell us what you're up to and your plans for the future? April 1 2020 ~ Working From Home ~ https://conta.cc/2JqiSoT Stay at home mandates don't stop face-to-face meetings and haven't for a number of years. Not in the least! Digital webcams and numerous software programs permit easy and convenient connections, communications and interactions with individuals and groups vastly far apart. We recommend SKYPE because it's easiest to install and use. Get a webcam and save yourself the inconvenience of travel time and parking to meet with clients. We added a "click to chat" button and a camera option to our website a number of years ago and enjoyed an immediate increase in interactions with our visitors. You can even enjoy traditional networking meetings via webcam. Join us for a Virtual Breakfast Wednesday and you'll see what I mean.   March 25 2020  ~ Welcome ~ https://conta.cc/39efok4 Thanks for stopping by. How can we assist you in these troubling times?  And rather than telling you of all the processes, projects, conditions, issues and situations we've assisted people with in the past, it's far easier for you to simply tell us what it is you want done.We're in our 38th year as a business development cooperative association and our list of "firsts" fills pages. Chances are excellent we've already "been there and done that." No brag, just fact. Join us for a Virtual breakfast Wednesday, and tell us what you have in mind. As long as it doesn't involve sex, drugs, politics or laundering money, we'll be delighted to take a look! March 18 2020  ~ The more you learn ~ https://conta.cc/2x2Yw2b I remember as a lad growing up one of my teachers telling me there is always more to learn. Amen, Brothers and Sisters. Amen! I was taught that by my parents and grand-parents and other military brats I grew up with. I learned that the learning process is never ending and the more I learned the more I knew there was still more to learn. Discoveries lead to more discoveries. Knowledge to more knowledge. And the process that produces increased knowledge produces tools, attitudes and advantages. Things like entrepreneurship could be taught and business incubators accelerated business growth and neither a college degree nor a business plan is a requirement for a successful business. And the confidence to explore the unknown with the curiosity to go where no-one has ever gone before and the courage to move new ideas forward. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday, and bring your discoveries to share. March 11 2020 37 Years of Service ~ https://conta.cc/2TKKM3G Seems like just yesterday when Services Cooperative Association ("The Co-Op") conducted its first public meeting. Time flies when you're having fun and working with start-ups is an absolute hoot! So many new ideas, vast energy and fantastic attitudes. Entrepreneurship and the free enterprise system combine in Houston to make this city the "start-up capital of the world." Join us for breakfast any Wednesday, bring your new idea and we'll share what we do to accelerate business growth. March 4 2020 Accountability ~ https://conta.cc/2TknNNX Accountability? Does it still exist? How is it weighed, counted, measured? Who decides? How is it applicable? Is it governed by freedom of information and availability of relevant data? Does it have the same implication/impact/importance with politicians, government officials, law enforcement, and/or academic personnel or are they entitled to exemptions? Who are you accountable to? Statistics indicate that people who have accountability partners are 85% more productive that those without. The accountability partner can be a business partner, spousal unit, mentor, financial adviser, business coach or accountability guide. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and tell us of your experiences and opinions regarding accountability. February 26 2020 Ready when you are ~ https://conta.cc/2Pfj1iw   Over the years we've had the good fortune to have worked with some very talented people. And while our clients have ranged from pre-startups to the largest companies in the world, our focus has been on small business. Small business is big business and Houston's greatest energy resource is its entrepreneurial energy. So it wasn't by accident that we've attracted these talented small business owners. We provide them services that no one else is providing. You'll recall that the 1st rule of entrepreneurship is "find the niche." We provide them services that no one else is providing. You'll recall that the 1st rule of entrepreneurship is "find the niche." We found and developed the niche of business incubation here in Houston, with Houston's first small business incubator, which became Texas' oldest. What made our business incubation so convenient to client companies is that they had access to virtually every resource they were likely to use conveniently located under one roof. The second factor leading to our incubators' success is that entrepreneurs are highly individualistic. "One size does not fit all." Each case is unique. So not only did our business incubators (which included the first Womens Business Center in the U.S.) provide conveniently available support services, we also provided total flexibility in the way the clients could access and utilize these resources. "Only pay for what you need." The final factor was our participation with a royalty interest in our client's growth. If our client companies didn't grow, we didn't make any real money. And because we are very good at what we do, we are entirely willing to share the risk. We still are and we still do and our incubators were also the first in the world to be virtual. Mentor, advisory board, professional development coach, custom tailored development methodology all conveniently available to our clients via the World Wide Web. We're always just "a click away." Our specialty is service companies because all the forecasts predict service companies as employment leaders for many years to come. So a business cooperative focusing on startup service companies with virtual business incubation tailored to specific entrepreneurial needs. Services Cooperative Association, since 1983 and operating entirely without grants, gifts, donations or public funding. We're business owners, independent, self-funded and very proud of it. Our clients have won virtually every award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally. We grow companies, advance careers and move new ideas forward. May we assist with yours? Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and discover the benefits of "The Co-Op" for your interests. February 19 2020 Making clean presentations ~ https://conta.cc/39JqPAD Use public speaking as a very effective way of "getting the word out." Start with an "attention-getter." Drop "you know," "but" and "ah" from your presentations With smaller groups, establish eye contact with everyone in the room, one person at a time. Have a handout with your complete contact information: name, title, company, telephone number, email, web URL and impact statement. When there are multiple speakers, see if you can be first or last in the presentation order. Ask the host for complete contact information on everyone in the room so you can do your followup. When asked to speak, inquire if there is a budget to pay the speakers. Asked how the event or function will be advertised/promoted and will same include your name, company and your topic title. Do your own promotion via web-site, newsletter and social media. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and discover the benefits of public speaking. February 12 2020 Measuring Progress ~ https://conta.cc/2uEFEWj How do you measure progress? It's really easy to tell if you're making progress when you have output you can weigh, count or measure. And it's increasing in terms of new clients gained, for instance. Or projects completed by your team. Or "thank you" calls received. Or smiles produced by your staff. Or referrals made by your existing customers. Keeping score is an easy way to tell when you're winning. Like revenues generated. Or promotions received. What's your way of measuring progress? Don't have one? Start one! Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and share your way of measuring progress or to learn one that will work for you!   January 29 2020 Easy as 1,2,3 ~ https://conta.cc/37ZFs2y Decide what you want to do! Determine how it's to be done! Then get started! Easy as 1,2,3! And don't quit. No matter how tough it gets. Keep at it. Winners never quit. Quitters never win. You know this, eh? No? Well you do now! And anybody can do the easy stuff. Exceptional people can accomplish exceptional things. Be exceptional! January 22 2020 Your Future Ahead ~ https://conta.cc/30PF4Rb You're inspired and motivated to be changing, modifying, and/or improving your future? If not, please just skip this part. If yes, read on. While it's often believed that the future can be neither predicted nor controlled, significant accomplishments by numerous individuals have clearly demonstrated it certainly can be influenced. So, why not you? Why not now? You can be the source to change your future. It's not magic. It's a methodology. And it produces a predictable result: achieving change. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and share your ideas. We'll help you get started, as we have with so many others and our companies have won virtually every award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally. Need immediate assistance? January 15  2020    We're Here For You! ~ https://conta.cc/2R3l5Ks Over the years we've noticed that people essentially come to us for one of two reasons: They require assistance or they want to provide assistance. So we've made the process more simple with one web page to provide for both situations. For those of you already familiar with Services Cooperative Association, you know our history and track-record, including Houston's first and Texas' oldest business Incubator; the first Womens Business Center in the United States; the first Virtual Incubator in the world; that our clients have won essentially every award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally; that our clients have ranged from pre-startups to the largest companies within their respective industries in the world, plus non-profits, plus universities, plus governments, plus charities Oh yes, we're independent business owners and operate entirely without grants, gifts, donations, contributions or public funding. We are not your tax-dollar at work and we are outspoken critics of those organizations which use tax-funding for business support services and have no up-line overseeing their efficiency, accuracy or accountability. Here are a few of the endorsements we've received over the years from real people and you probably already know some of them. I invite you to check us out on the World Wide Web and to determine if working with us is appropriate for you. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday to connect face-to-face.Need immediate assistance? It's just a click away . January 2 2020   Welcome 2020 ~ https://conta.cc/2tk0j18 You made it! 2020 is here! Now you get to implement all those strategies you have for this new year! Exciting, eh? Join us for lunch Wednesday and we'll move you forward with what you want to do! Immediate assistance is just a click away and we'll get you moving in the direction you want to go! December 18 2019 Top Spin ~ https://conta.cc/2E7wVgG Things not going as well as you'd like? Attitude in the pits? Need more progress in your projects? Assistance is just a click away and let's get you some effective top spin! Join us for breakfast Wednesday and we'll move you forward in a positive frame of mind! December 11 2019 Still to be done? ~ https://conta.cc/36aboj9 Look closely. Look carefully. What's still to be done for the year? Find it. Do it! Complete those unfinished projects. You don't want them serving as distractions.  Should you have to bring in outside assistance, then do so. Get it done!  No reasons, excuses, overwhelm or pity parties! Plan your strategies to start your 2020 fresh with new ideas, projects and goals. Join us for breakfast Wednesday and we'll ease you through the process for completion of this year and preparation for the next. December 4 2019 Only you. ~ https://conta.cc/33zMcky What do you have that no one else has? No, it's not a trick question. Think about it for just another moment. You are unique in the universe. In all this immensely vast space - billions of light years across - you are special. And what do you do with this wonderful quality? How about make the world a better place. A simple act of kindness or a word of praise to someone does just that. Not only are you unique, you are a positive influence in all this vastness. Have time and energy and the desire to improve upon those around you? Consider volunteering your time, energy and good intentions with the numerous organizations that would love to have you. Like Volunteer Houston or Special Pals or any of Houston's many other Resource Groups. You, yes you make a difference in the universe. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and share what you're doing to make your neighborhood or Houston or Texas or the U.S. or the world a better place. November 27 2019 Makin' a list . . . ~ https://conta.cc/2rbv4UW Ok, we're running out of year. You've noticed, eh? And you've accomplished everything you set out to do last January, right? So you're ready to ease into the full holiday mode, party and relax? Good for you! You certainly deserve it and congratulations. With the new year approaching you can start with goals and targets for your 2020. The only information you need to compile now is the "what." As in "what's next for you?" The "how" comes later. A suggestion, if I may? Consider a mentor to move you forward faster and it's not by accident that 93% of the world's richest people have one. Join us for breakfast any Wednesday and let's see if a mentor would be a good fit for you? Now back to "makin' a list." It's to be a list of all the people you want to say "thank you" to for making your year a success. November 20 2019 Transform and Empower ~ https://conta.cc/2XkQUkF Need immediate assistance with growing  your company, building your career or advancing your ideas? If so, you're in the right place. We've been doing this awhile. Here's what people say about us.   We're a not for profit cooperative association of business owners and we operate entirely without grants, gifts, donations, contributions or public funding. We're totally independent and proud of it. Come have breakfast Wednesday and we'll see about showing you how to be totally independent, too! This breakfast on the 20th is an open forum and you can speak freely about your ideas, wants and needs. Breakfast not convenient or you are already very well established and seek to return something to the community, connect with us here and we'll discuss possibilities and opportunities. November 13 2019 Transform and Empower ~ https://conta.cc/2NIfMOM While our corporate clients have ranged from pre-startups to the largest companies in the world and from universities to governments and from economic development groups to charities and our start-ups have won virtually every award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally, rather than me tell you all the successful projects, processes and procedures we've transformed clients with over the years, it's far quicker for you to just tell me what it is you want to do. Come have breakfast any Wednesday and we'll see what's to be done so that you are empowered. November 6 2019 Mind Over Matter ~ https://conta.cc/2NzSB9g As a lad growing up I was taught I could do anything I "put my mind to." I learned that "where there is a will, there is a way." That "difficulties could be over-come." That "quitting is not an option." That "perseverance provides success." The list goes on and on. Where did all this come from you may ask? From my parents, my grand-parents, my uncles and aunts, my cousins, my teachers, my coaches, my band-masters. This list goes on and on, too. And of course the little voice in my head that encourages me to "figure it out" and "get it done." This is the same voice only I can hear that has me occupy my thoughts in the how to do it and not the not the doubt that it can be done. Is the little voice in your head president of your fan club, your chief supporter and supplying you with positive mental attitude? Come have breakfast with us any Wednesday and we'll see what's to be done so that your little voice knows it works for you to achieve those things you want to accomplish. Breakfast not convenient? Connect with me here. October 30 2019 Scary ~ https://conta.cc/362LM8L Scary? No, I'm not talking about Halloween. What I'm referring to is we're running out of 2019. Have you accomplished what you set out to do for the year! If so, congratulations. Good job. If not, why not? You still have several months remaining. Let's get it in gear, eh? Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and I'll share some simple secrets on what you might think of doing so that you complete your "to do list" before you run out of time. October 23 2019 Motivation ~ https://conta.cc/2pqMjR8 Some number of years ago the topic of motivation came up in a group conversation. And in particular, self-motivation.  So what motivates you?

How about creating happy customers, clients, staff and co-workers.

How about self-fulfillment and satisfaction?

How about the discovery of what's never been done before and seeing it become widely accepted and implemented?

October 16 2019 What - How - When ~ https://conta.cc/2IEDcmB

1. You've decided what it is you want to do?.

2. So, get started. No procrastination. No fear. No delays. No reasons or excuses.

3. And give yourself a schedule with tasks and time lines.

4. You've decided the "what." Next is the "how" and "when."

5. Business plans totally unnecessary, thank you.

6. Bill Gates, Michael Dell, Steve Jobs, Henry Ford - the list goes on and on - no business plan.

7. You have a resource mix.

8. Time, Money, Ability, Contacts, Energy, Attitude, Integrity.

9. Which can you really do without?

10. (T)(M)(Ab)(C)(E)(At)(I) = Desired results. No zeros allowed.

11. Bring in additional input should you encounter doubts or delays.

12. A mentor will move you forward faster with what's to be done, knowledgeable on how to do it and motivated it get it accomplished.

13. 93% of the world's richest people have a mentor.

14. Why do you suppose that is?

October 9 2019 Quarantined ~ https://conta.cc/2o03t7Q

Scientists tell us the universe is a vast space.

More than a billion light years across and continuing to expand.

They say it's more than 13.8 billion years old and contains billions of galaxies.

They also say that about 65 million years ago, plus or minus a few hundred thousand years, a massive asteroid hit earth killing off more than 70% of the life forms and taking millions of years for our planet to recover.

<whew>

They also tell us that all the basic requirements for life generation is found in the cosmic dust that blankets the universe, leading me to think that the probability exists that there are numerous planets in the universe that didn't have the major setback our earth did.

While we may have clues and theories that earth might have had visitors in the past we have no absolute proof.

So what's the deal?

I would suspect that other more advanced life forms have been monitoring earth for years and have no plans of visiting until we stop killing one another.

Me thinks we've been quarantined until we get our act together.

So what does this have to do with our Co-Op's mission to grow companies, advance careers and move new ideas forward?

Easy answer - we're making things better one person at the time and have the track record to prove it.

Come have breakfast with us any Wednesday and we'll see if what we're doing will move you in the direction you want to go to make the world a better place.

October 2 2019 Ah, but and you know ~ https://conta.cc/2lEUs30
Ever been listening to a conversation or a presentation where the speaker was continually injecting a "you know," a "but" or an "ah"?

They will say a few words, pause, then say "ah," "you know," or "but," then continue with another few words and repeat the "but," "you know" or "ah."

And while I want to be a respectful listener, my patience runs out and enough is enough! 

Here's why.

It's been my experience that those guilty of these injections are totally unconscious of them and will continue to insert the words into the conversation or presentation in the future.

Follow me on this, please?

The speaker/presenter is completely, totally, absolutely unaware of the injections.

They don't know they are doing it.

If they knew, they would stop, eh?

So, two things to correct the matter.

The easiest is when the speaker asks for questions or comments.

You'll be doing them a favor by commenting on their injections and saving future audiences the grief.

No opportunity for questions, then track down the speaker and the individual who booked them and tell them of all the junk word "clutter" they use.

Come have breakfast with us any Wednesday and we'll see if you inject junk into your conversations or presentations and if so, how it can be easily corrected.

September 25 2019 Where to??? ~ https://conta.cc/30tFDyg
Where do you want to go?

I'm not asking regarding a geographic destination.

My question is directed toward your business, career or moving a new idea forward.

It's progressing from where you are now to where you want to be in the future.

And while the future cannot be reliably predicted or controlled, it can be influenced to yield a more favorable outcome, especially when compared to doing nothing regarding any advancement you may seek.

Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and we'll talk about where you are now, where you want to go and what can be done to get you there.

Just so you know we've been doing this awhile now - since 1983.

It's not magic.

It's a proven methodology to move you forward.

Breakfast not possible because of time or location constraints?

Then give me a call or connect on Skype.

September 18 2019 Follow-up ~  https://conta.cc/2A96rcH
You're out networking and meeting new people?

Great!

And you remember to get their business card?

Another great!

And you ask them what they do or what they are interested in, yes?

Yoo hoo!

And your parting remark as you go on to meet more people is "let's keep in touch?"

Fabulous!

So what remains?

You put them in your database and do your follow-up before your head hits the pillow.

A recommended method is an email to generate hard copy for your files and theirs.

Start with something like "What a pleasure meeting you!"

Then "I look forward to learning more about you."

And end with "Should you know of someone who needs (fill in what it is you do), please think of me."

That's it.

Piece of cake.

Keep in touch by sending your newsletter or periodic updates and connect with them on social media like Facebook and LinkedIn.

Remember to include in your notes where you met them and what they might be seeking assistance with.

Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and we'll show you how to turn your contacts into clients!

September 11 2019 Getting to your "Yes" ~  https://conta.cc/34xzogu
Getting the yes!

Growing a company, building a career, or advancing a new idea you need "Yeses."

Let's talk about start-ups for a moment.

More start-ups fail because they run out of money than all other reasons combined.

Yet they typically have a viable product or service.

What they don't have is personal selling skills.

Turns out personal selling can be taught.

We're not talking social media.

We're talking face-to-face words that sell.

What's the benefit to the decision maker, for instance?

In The Co-Op we teach personal selling skills.

One of the tools we use is "The Guest Game."

First rule is you have to ask.

Second rule is you have to follow-up.

Learn how to have Guests at Chapter Meetings and you learn how to sell.

It's not magic, it's a methodology that produces a predictable and very favorable result: a "yes!"

Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and we'll show you how to get "yeses" for your project!

September 4 2019 Labor Day Edition ~ https://conta.cc/32kdFq7
Labor Day in the United States of America is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September.

It honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the development, growth, endurance, strength, security, prosperity, productivity, laws, sustainability, persistence, structure, and well-being of the country.

It is the Monday of the long weekend known as Labor Day Weekend.

It is recognized as a federal holiday.

Beginning in the late 19th century, as the trade union and labor movements grew, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate labor.

"Labor Day" was promoted by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, which organized the first parade in New York City.

In 1887, Oregon was the first state of the United States to make it an official public holiday.

By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty states in the United States officially celebrated Labor Day.

August 28 2019 What's best for you ~ https://conta.cc/31PZwAO
Houston is filled with "networking" groups.

How do you pick the one best for you?

Of course you can always go visit them one by one to decide.

That will only take you a few years.

And then you have to go visit the new ones that were started while you were visiting the established ones.

Whew!

Sounds like a never ending process which can be made much simpler.

For instance, what's the difference between a networking group and a business development group?

Taa daa!

Easy answer: "Business!"

So you really want a business development group rather than a networking group.

And speaking of "development," wouldn't it be great to discover a group that "develops" you while providing you business and contacts and professional growth.

Something along the lines of "connect, learn, grow and prosper."®

And a group that's been around awhile (since 1983) and worked with lots of people (65,500+).

And has a successful track record of "growing companies, building careers and moving new ideas forward."®

And has a history of returning to the community, like demonstrating that entrepreneurship can be taught.

Join us for breakfast any Wednesday morning and I'll introduce you to just such a group.

August 21 2019 It's all about change ~ https://conta.cc/31JUHZV
and how well you adapt to it.

So how do you get the word out about your business or career?

Change is inevitable, adjustment is important.

For instance once upon a time to advertise your business there was a telephone directory called The Yellow Pages.

And to go out and meet other people for business development or career advancement there were chambers of commerce and various professional organizations.

There's still radio, TV and newspapers for advertising or promotion as well as fund-raising functions where you can dress up, go meet people and make contributions to a good cause.

You've no doubt noticed social media is robust and networking groups are multiplying.

Meetups abound and they're everywhere on every subject.

However, the shopping/buying experience has changed dramatically and there's still much, much more change to come.

For you to best get the word out about your company, products, services or career, come meet people face-to-face over breakfast with us any Wednesday morning.

We'll teach you how to craft a memorable introduction and get you noticed as Featured Speaker, Motivational Speaker and/or Business Showcase.

August 14 2019 Fix The Problem Not The Blame ~ https://conta.cc/2yVOUnF
Have you noticed all the finger pointing that's going on in Washington by the politicians.

These people remind me of very badly behaving, very spoiled children.

Total clowns without the makeup.

How do we get those who are "duly elected" to focus on fixing the problems and not the blame so that our country continues to be a world leader? How do we impress upon them that arguing is not a solution to even the most complex issues facing our great nation?

Come share your ideas and opinions with us at breakfast Wednesday morning.

I need not remind you that you will please leave your arguments, pointing fingers and any negative attitudes at the door.

We'll make a list of items to be fixed and send it to Washington from "we, the people."To have your issues be included, just show up on the 14th.

Fix the problem, not the blame.

August 7 2019 Windows of Opportunity ~  https://conta.cc/31jv4yQ

Opportunity presents itself.

Sometimes when you're not even looking.

So what do you do?

Choice one: ignore it.

Choice two: act on it.

Now we've met some folks who are totally, absolutely completely content with whatever they have going and any change is simply not a consideration, thank you very much!

Their life - their choice - certainly ok with us.

For those others who want to pursue an opportunity, oh boy, hooray, let's do it, eh?

We've been in this active support mode for a goodly number of years and some of the individuals we've worked with are brand names in Houston now!

Come have breakfast with us any Wednesday morning and discover how we can very effectively guide you in developing your opportunity.

Breakfast not convenient?

Then call or click to chat.

We're here for you and we love what we're doing to speed new ideas along.

July 31 2019 Aspirations ~ https://conta.cc/2SMytTG

Webster's Dictionary:  ardently desiring; strong wish; high desire.

It's a simple process to get you from where you are to where you want to be.

It's not magic and it produces a predictable result: accomplishment.

Start with the attitude that it can be done and you're going to discover how to do it.

Make sure the little voice in your head is offering positive suggestions in moving you forward and not doubts that hold you back.

Devise some action steps that you can achieve. Create an empowerment team that you can count on to offer constructive input.

Come have breakfast with us any Wednesday and discover how we can assist you in successfully fulfilling your vision for creating your future.


July 24 2019 Teamwork ~ https://conta.cc/2Y0BBMM
Team playing skills.
What are they?

Do you have them?

Are they important?

Why are they important?

In my youth I was on several teams; football, baseball, basketball.

I remember practice, practice, practice and more practice.

Yes, we won championships.

In band it was the same thing: practice, practice, practice.

We had to march right and we had to sound right.

Maybe "right" is too lame.

More like "perfect!"

Yes, we won competitions.

Now what about career?

Co-Op Associates have held positions of leadership in too many organizations to list here.

Now what about business?

Co-Op Associates have won virtually every award for business growth in Houston, some nationally and some even internationally.

Do you have to have team playing skills?

You betcha if you want satisfaction and success!

And do you practice?

Of course you do.

Right?

Want to learn more about team playing skills and perfect practice producing perfect results?

Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and see team playing in action.

July 17 2019 Houston's Greatest Energy Resource ~ https://conta.cc/2NRBP9m
We describe "success" as having fun, making money and doing good!

Our clients do what they love and are well paid for it.

Their passion is demonstrated in the results they produce which makes for very happy customers!

Our special thanks to all the Houston Entrepreneurlal Heroes who came out for the celebration lunch at Gallery Furniture last week.

These are the people who are responsible for organizations that keep Houston, Texas "The Entrepreneurial Capital of the World!"

What's next for you or your business, career, company or organization?

Make it something worthy of you and should you need assistance, join us for breakfast Wednesday to meet some of the exceptional people we're working with.

July 10 2019 Making It Happen ~ https://conta.cc/2JnWoG3
You've heard there are three types of people:

1) Those that make things happen.

2) Those who watch things happen.

3) Those that say "what happened?"

Should you be in that top tier, let's get you booked as the Featured Speaker at one of our meetings so you can share those skills with a receptive audience.

In the event you're not that top level, come have lunch with us this Wednesday and we'll get you started on the path of motivating, inspiring and leading others into changes that make them happier and the world a better place to live, work and play.

Alas, should you be that bottom rung, we'll introduce you into the political world, where you will be surrounded by people who will gleefully point out what's happening from their very biased and selective point of view.

July 3 2019 Virtual World ~ https://conta.cc/2Nk9B6E

Do you remember days gone by when:

You wanted to buy something, you went to a store?

You wanted a hot meal you didn't prepare yourself, you went to a restaurant?

You needed information, you went to a library?

These days, whatever you want is only a click away.

Business incubation, career development and mentoring also just a click away.

If you want it, click it!

June 26 2019 Hope vs. Faith ~ https://conta.cc/2RoGb5X

Over the years we've been asked many times: "What is it you do?"

Our direct response is: "We grow companies, build careers and advance ideas.

"Most often the next question is: "How do you do that?"

And while the first question (the what) has an easy answer the second question (the how) is not so easy.

You see each person, idea and situation is different.

One size does not fit all.

And an effective development methodology is determined by the resources, attributes and aptitude of the person we're working with.

As pioneers in the incubator industry we discovered an accurate way to take the individual from where they were at the moment to where they wanted to be in the future.

We had our clients abandon "hope," for instance, and substitute "faith" instead.

Think about those two words for just a moment.

What's the difference between hope and faith?

If you had to select one or the other to work with, which would you choose?

Come share your thoughts with us any Wednesday morning at breakfast.

June 19 2019 Entrepreneurship ~ https://conta.cc/2IbIUg2
You've noticed that some people have the amazing capability of turning defeat into victory.

And of overcoming any and all obstacles in their path to victory.

It's interesting to me that sometimes our government seems to miss such simple facts that are so obvious and compelling.

Take "entrepreneurship" for instance.

Entrepreneurship is absolutely, totally, completely color-blind and gender neutral.

Yet there are those who continually say that being a minority or female or gay requires special set-asides because these people are disadvantaged.

What!?!

Why?

Glad you asked!

So they can go get tax-payer money to set up special programs to "help" these "disadvantaged" business owners. 

Have you any idea, by the way, of how much these people actually pay themselves for their "noble" cause.

Wow! 

You'll find it shocking! 

Talk about "gaming the system!" 

And the largest such group in the United States, originally funded on a temporary basis to ease those negatively impacted in the great recession to become self-employed has no oversight leadership to monitor top level salaries.

Now I'm not talking about such groups as SCORE, who are essentially volunteers and don't draw a salary.

And I am speaking out about those other groups who set up charity programs (AKA programs funded by tax dollars) for those who don't want or need charity.

Let's talk about women business owners, for instance.

We surveyed thousands of women business owners and women business owners-to-be before setting up our Womens Business Center Incubator (first in the United States).

These thousands of women we talked with gave us their priorities in a very clear manner: "a level playing field" and  "a hand up."

They emphatically did not want a "hand-out" or "charity."

They did not consider themselves disadvantaged and in the process of forming their own companies began starting businesses at a faster rate than men.

They objected, vigorously, when individuals or organizations said they needed charity to get started or be successful. 

Methinks those organizations out there still "gaming" the system, having no oversight controls or monitoring should be shut-down. 

And let's get them to publish their salaries, all the way to the top, since it's "public funding" and you'll see what I mean. 

We see chambers of commerce, networking groups and other self-funded organizations doing just fine, thank you, in developing Houston small businesses. 

If and when you ever decide you want to start a business please heed this suggestion: make sure whomever you may be speaking with seeking advice has hand-on business ownership experience.

Also be aware the most progressive organizations have the convenience of you connecting via phone, chat or Skype for business assistance or career guidance.

Have you thoughts or opinions?

Come share them any Wednesday morning at breakfast.
 
June 12 2019 Pondering? ~ https://conta.cc/2QPWo3L
Decisions! Decisions! Decisions!

Oh my!

So many considerations.

So much to ponder.

So many options, alternatives and possibilities.

You can think the situation to death!

Or, you can stop thinking and start doing!

Uh huh - just do it!

And if it doesn't work the first time, you pick yourself up, dust yourself off and proceed with the knowledge you've gained!

Still stuck?

Get yourself a mentor.

Want to know more?

Come have breakfast any Wednesday morning.

June 5 2019 Politics, good or bad? ~  https://conta.cc/2EHrhCA

Many years ago, I was taught the duty and privilege of voting.
I think it was during the 6th grade.

Grammar School is what that used to be called - grades 1 to 6.

I have no idea what that's called now, just as I have no idea of what's going on within our political system.

It appears to me that there is a lot of name calling, high intensity arguments and varying levels of facts in this system these days.

I don't recall this from previous years in elected representatives responsible to move our nation forward.

I do, however, recall a conversation I had with my father, God rest his soul.

My dad was career military and his term regarding politicians was "a necessary evil."

These days I'm wondering how necessary, why evil and what can be done about it?

Our focus remains on growing companies, building careers and advancing ideas.

We are independent and self-funded, operating entirely without gifts, grants, donations, contributions or the whims and disagreements of tax funding.

Have some opinions?

Come share them over breakfast any Wednesday morning.

May 29 2019 About Investors ~ https://conta.cc/2HMSepc
Should you be considering obtaining an investment for your startup idea, please remember the 6 "P"s the investor will be evaluating. 
They are:

How well do you understand and operate at risk?

As you may know, some people are totally, absolutely, completely risk averse.

If it's not a sure thing they avoid it entirely.

These types of people are not bad, wrong or deficient.

They just, by nature, avoid risks.

Others like the excitement of venturing into the unknown, especially if they have the opportunity to do something previously undiscovered.

They thrive on making these discoveries, achieving new things, and accomplishing what's never been done before.

Should you be a risk taker, come have breakfast with us any Wednesday and share your vision of a creation.

Many others have.

April 17 2019 Creating Success ~ https://conta.cc/2UtkGW5
You don't need anyone's permission to be successful!

It's your life.

Live it so you're having fun, making money and doing good.

Make sure that little voice in your head (that only you can hear) keeps you focused on the "what" you want to do and the "how" to do it.

Please remember that little voice works for you and not the other way around.

Give yourself some goals, targets, aspirations or ambitions to get you from where you are to where you want to be.

Believe in yourself and your abilities to achieve your future.

Keep a positive mental attitude.

Never give up and make your accomplishments worthy of you.

Should your interests involve growing a company, building a career or advancing an idea, come have breakfast with us any Wednesday.

April 10 2019 Time is Money ~ https://conta.cc/2Ke4pjs
Some say it's all about time.
60 seconds to the minute.

60 minutes to the hour.


24 hours to the day.

7 days to the week.

Time is fixed.

Just for fun, go lookup all the quotes about time.

What we do with it, ah, not so fixed, eh?

Here's my take on it.

You decide how to pass through your time.

Your life.

Your choices.

Enjoy! And should your interests involve growing a company, building a career or advancing an idea, come have breakfast with us any Wednesday.

Chances are excellent that we can show you how to use your time having fun and making money in the process.

April 3 2019 What's Your Target? ~ https://conta.cc/2JKcJqC

What is it you want to accomplish?

Does it keep changing?

Kinda like a moving target, eh?

Let's see if we can make it more stationary.

And let's have it consist of such things as financial freedom doing something you love that there is a excellent demand for.

Some very simple rules to follow.

First you decide "what."

Then you decide "how."

We've been assisting people in this process for years now.

Let's see if it would also work for you. Come have breakfast with us Wednesday and share your target.



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