Category: <span>Newsletter</span>

2023 Newsletter December 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

Final Issue – Strategies for Success Newsletter December 2023

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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Retirement News

This is our last newsletter. I’m retiring and closing Selling Strategies this month. It has been an honor to be welcomed into your mailbox each month. Many of you have been subscribers for 18 years. Thank you for your enthusiastic interest, support, and messages!

The Selling Strategies website will remain active in 2024 so Josmo’s Café recipes, newsletters, and Energizer Minutes can be accessed. Online book sales will close December 15. If you need any of my books after that date please get in touch. emily@sellingstrategies.com will continue to be my email address.

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In this December 2023 issue:

Thoughts from Home
Thoughts from Others
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from Home

Are you aging or advancing?

Aging (noun). The process of growing old.

Advancing (verb). Move forward in a purposeful way. Make or cause to make progress.

How we view our years on earth changes dramatically from child to adult. As children, we can’t wait to grow up. Children count the halves. “I’m four and a half,” says a child emphatically correcting an adult. Then, what seems like a fleeting instant, our desire to count the years loses its appeal. I hope I’m not the only one who has needed to pause when asked our age to do some arithmetic on the matter. What we do know is that the aging process starts at birth, and we hope it becomes a natural and healthy progression during our life.

Advancing is an intentional action. The word is powerful and positive. Personal advancement helps keep us physically younger and young at heart. For the past couple of years, I’ve been imagining my life without Selling Strategies. I’ve been focusing on ways to continue to develop, progress, and contribute in meaningful ways. Here are my top three as I enter this special chapter of life.

Expand my learning. What can I learn that’s new and interesting to me? While the list and learning opportunities are countless, I’ve decided to focus on art. I’ve gotten involved with my local art museum through art appreciation discussions, volunteering, and attending the multitude of events that are offered.

Share my love of reading. I’m an active member of my local chapter of Friends of the Library. I serve as co-chair of our First Grade Literacy Program. Our reader team visits three schools (14 classrooms) four times a year connecting with over 250 students each time. My co-chair Charlene and I select the books and then design and create a classroom activity related to the book. My favorite book that we recently read to the children is The Tallest House on the Street by Stephanie Moss. The book is about a giraffe who is looking for a new home that is closer to her friends. She struggles to find one tall enough—until her friends come to her aid. What would we do without our friends?

Make new friends. Speaking of friends, this has been easy because of my participation at the art museum and with the library. I am continually amazed at what interesting work, hobbies and talents people have that are inspiring me to further broaden my interests and knowledge.

Some of my favorite quotes on this topic.

“Aging is an extraordinary process that you become the person you always should have been.” David Bowie

“As soon as you feel too old to do something, do it.” Margaret Deland (1857-1945), author of The Iron Woman

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.” George Bernard Shaw

“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” Andy Warhol

I wish you a lifetime of advancing!

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Thoughts from Others

I’d like to wrap up 30 years of Selling Strategies with the timeless words of Ralph Waldo Emerson.

The Meaning of Success

To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people

and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics

and endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty;

To find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by

a healthy child, a garden patch

or a redeemed social condition;

To have played and laughed with enthusiasm
And sung with exultation;

To know even one life has breathed

easier because you have lived;

This is to have succeeded.

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Josmo’s Café

Holiday gatherings are in full swing in our world! Here are our favorite crowd-pleasing appetizers. Hidden Valley Oyster Crackers. Hot Crab Spread. Goat Cheese, Ricotta, and Pesto Terrine.

Remember to check out our 100+ list of recipes on the Josmo’s Café website page.

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Make Quality Customer Service your agency’s focus in 2024

The online Book Store will close on December 15, 2023.

Clients tell me that my three books – Selling from the Inside, Selling in a Hard Market, and Great Service Sells – continue to be valuable tools in developing a team culture to build relationships, retain business, and get referrals. Order single copies online from our Book Store. Quantity discount pricing is $10.00 a book (mix and match) for orders of 25 or more plus shipping. Please reach out if interested in quantity orders.

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Stay Energized

Our Energizer Minute for December is titled Take it off your list.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter November 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

November 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter November 2023 Issue 215

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this November 2023 issue:

Thoughts from Home
Thoughts from the Office
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from Home

Keeping score

A lot of people keep score.

If a neighbor is nice to you, you are nice to them. If you ask a friend for a favor, you reciprocate sometime later. When you invite a person to an event or out for a meal, you expect the other person to initiate an invitation later. There is a problem with that philosophy. Life doesn’t always work out the way you’d like it to.

Sometime ago I decided to quit keeping score. As level-headed John puts it, some people are callers and others are callees. We have friends we totally enjoy, but we seem to be the ones who always initiate connecting.

Not keeping score has been a blessing. It’s enabled me to be sincere in what I do without thinking of how it will be reciprocated. I’m grateful for what’s offered to me without self-imposed beliefs of what I should do in return.

If you’re a scorekeeper, please consider this. Don’t keep score and see where your heart takes you.

Reprinted from previous newsletter

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Thoughts from the Office

Form Relationships Based on Trust

I recently read the intriguing and complex Pulitzer-prize winning book Trust by Hernan Diaz. It’s a novel about power, money, and deception set during the 1920’s on Wall Street. The irony of the book title to the story themes is obvious.

In my first book, Selling in a Hard Market, the first chapter is titled Form Relationships Based on Trust. I believe the key points in that chapter are as relevant today as they were 20 years ago. See what you think.

“Trust is what holds business relationships together through uncertainty, competition, and a changing marketplace. The foundations of trust relationships are:

Mutual respect and understanding
Consistent delivery of your business practices
Shared objectives
Strong interpersonal relationships

Let’s examine each one to see how you and your agency currently measure up.

Mutual respect and understanding are established between you and your clients when you demonstrate that you understand your clients’ businesses, challenges, and successes. Stay abreast of their industry, competition, and customer and vendor relationships.
Consistent delivery of your business practices is attained when everyone on your agency team adheres to the highest level of service. Give your clients no reason to doubt that you can deliver.
As your clients’ businesses grow and their needs change, learn what objectives they have so that you can assist them in managing their own risk. It may be time for a client to hire a loss control specialist or human resources administrator. These changes affect their insurance program needs.
Maintaining strong personal relationships is at the core of creating trust. People want to do business with people who care about them and are active in their world. Frequent client contact by your entire service team demonstrates commitment and professionalism. Stay visible by sending articles of interest, newsletters, and note cards or by attending business, civic, and community functions.

Without these fundamentals in place, a client may lose faith in your ability to do the job.”

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Josmo’s Café

It’s soup season! Soups can take a lot of time to make. This Red Lentil Soup does not. Lentils are soft and in about 30 minutes you’ll have a warm, yummy, and pretty soup to serve. Enjoy!

Remember to check out our 100+ list of recipes on the Josmo’s Café website page.

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Make Quality Customer Service your agency’s focus in 2024

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Stay Energized

Like most adults who spend time with impressionable children, I pay attention to being a good role model. Ella, my six-and-a-half-year-old neighbor, was washing her sticky little hands in my kitchen sink. She reached for a paper towel to dry her hands. I stopped her and told her that she should use my kitchen towel instead of using a paper towel. She complied. As she handed me the kitchen towel, she looked at the large roll of paper towels and asked, “Then why do you have them?” Smart kid.

It reminded me that I need to replace my kitchen counter paper towels with a sustainable product that I already use for cleaning. Soft Landings reusable soft cloth towel is our number one choice for cleaning the house, the car, polishing, and things that require a scratch-free cloth including children’s food-covered faces. Soft Landing towels come on a convenient perforated roll and are made to be washed in the washing machine. Towels can be used multiple times making them an affordable and smart way to help protect the environment.

On the topic of making more eco-friendly choices, we have started using Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets. Zero waste, environmentally friendly, and easy on clothes.

We recommend giving both products a try!

Our Energizer Minute for November is titled See what your customers see.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter October 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

October 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter October 2023 Issue 214

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this October 2023 issue:

Thoughts from Home
Thoughts from Others
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from Home

Is what you’re asking what you want to know?

Overheard at the golf course.

Golfer 1: Did you watch the game last night?
Golfer 2: I did not.
Golfer 1: Oh darn. I wanted to know who won.
Golfer 2: Well, I know the answer to that. The Lions beat the Chiefs 21-20.

Text message from a friend.

Friend: What time do you want to meet for Sunday brunch?
Me: How about 11:00?
Friend: I don’t think that’s good for me. Let me check on something.
Friend 2 minutes later: 10:00 would be better. Does that work for you?
Me: Of course. See you then.

These are examples of ineffective communication. Golfer 1 should have directly said, “Do you know who won the game last night?” My friend could have eliminated a back and forth by checking her calendar first and then asking “Does 10:00 work for you to meet for brunch?”

Moral of the story: Before asking a question, take a moment to think about what exactly you want to know. You will save time, avoid frustration, and get the answer you need.

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Thoughts from Others

Shake it off and step up

One day a farmer’s donkey fell into an abandoned well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do. Finally, he decided the animal was old and the well needed to be covered up anyway, so it just wasn’t worth it to him to try to retrieve the donkey.

He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They each grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. Realizing what was happening, the donkey at first cried and wailed horribly. Then, a few shovelfuls later, he quieted down completely.

The farmer peered down into the well and was astounded by what he saw. With every shovelful of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up on the new layer of dirt. As the farmer’s neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.

Pretty soon, to the astonishment of the neighbors, the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and trotted off.

Moral of the story. Life is going to shovel all kinds of dirt on you. Do not let it bury you. Instead, shake it off and step up. Each of our troubles can be a steppingstone.

Second moral of the story. The donkey gave the farmer who tried to bury him a strong kick. When you try to cover your ass, it always comes back and gets you.

Author unknown

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Josmo’s Café

My apple-loving husband John absolutely loves my newest fall dessert. Apple Squares. I love them, too, since they are so easy to make. No electric mixer needed!

Oh boy, oh boy! It’s Frosted Pumpkin Cake Squares month! Absolutely the best pumpkin cake recipe you’ll ever make!

Remember to check out our 100+ list of recipes on the Josmo’s Café website page.

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Customer Service team discussions strengthen teamwork and relationships

Clients tell me that my three books – Selling from the Inside, Selling in a Hard Market, and Great Service Sells – continue to be valuable tools in developing a team culture to build relationships, retain business, and get referrals. Order online from our Book Store. Quantity discount pricing is $10.00 a book (mix and match) for orders of 25 or more plus shipping. Please reach out if interested in quantity orders.

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Stay Energized

Something to think about. German-Swiss poet, author, and painter Hermann Hesse (1877-1962) wrote, “If you hate a person, you hate something in him that is part of yourself. What isn’t a part of ourselves doesn’t disturb us.”

Our Energizer Minute for October is titled Is it me?

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter September 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

September 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter September 2023 Issue 213

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this September 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Road
Have you read….?
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Road

Two factors are at the heart of extraordinary customer service

Imagine this. Every 7, 11, or 18 days your entire assigned customer list changes. You are expected to perform your job at exceedingly high standards and know each person’s name and individual preferences. That’s not all. Your customer count can be as high as 300 people. Your workdays are 10-12 hours long. Your job is in person and your connection with your customers can be in various environments so your ability to recognize, identify, and relate is tested all the time.

That’s the reality for the employees on the Windstar cruise that John and I were on in July. Exploring Scotland, Norway, and Iceland was incredible. Unbelievable is how John and I describe the first-rate service provided by the cruise line.

We were on the ship for 18 days. I asked one of my favorite crew members who has been with Windstar for nine years how she consistently provides top-quality customer service. She smiled broadly and simply said, “I love my job.”

Moral of the story. It takes both mindset (frame of mind that combines motivation, effort, and approach) and heartset (passion and caring about what you do) to be at the top of your game. If you find yourself lacking satisfaction or falling short in performance in anything you do, it may be beneficial to do a self-assessment of both your mindset and your heartset.

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Have you read….?

Resigned to Success – Using an Exit Plan to Build Hope, Energy, and Success in a Business by Scott White and Larry Linne

We are fortunate that my longtime friend Scott White, retired CEO of VAST, a cutting-edge independent insurance agency in Marquette, MI, shares his personal and remarkable story of how he successfully transitioned his business to the next generation by writing his post-dated resignation letter. Writing and sharing his future plans inspired his team to take on new roles and build and strengthen their talents. His thoughtful letter allowed a smooth and rewarding departure for Scott and solidified the continued success of VAST. Scott shares the valuable advice and guidance he received from Larry Linne, his succession mentor and a Certified Exit Planner. Larry is co-author of the book.

Transitioning to a new phase of life from a place you helped build and love is not easy. Scott beautifully bares his personal journey and offers sound advice to help others do that.

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Josmo’s Café

In the heat of summer, I was looking for a new slow cooker chicken recipe. I found a great one! Sweet and Easy Pulled Chicken has a unique combination of ingredients making it both sweet and zesty. Leftovers freeze well.

We’ve been busy making our summertime favorites. We thought you’d enjoy them, too!

Marinated Cucumber Salad. Fig Orange Jam. Fig Preserves Cake. Mediterranean Orzo Salad.

Remember to check out our 100+ list of recipes on the Josmo’s Café website page.

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Selling Strategies Resources for in-house development

Group discussion and learning solidifies culture and behavior. Clients tell me that my three books – Selling from the Inside, Selling in a Hard Market, and Great Service Sells – continue to be valuable tools in developing a team culture to build relationships, retain business, and get referrals. Order online from our Book Store. Quantity discount pricing is $10.00 a book (mix and match) for orders of 25 or more plus shipping. Please reach out if interested.

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Stay Energized

Need a feel-good story? This People magazine story about two incredible twenty-something teachers will do just that.

Our Energizer Minute for September is About Mailboxes.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter August 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

August 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter August 2023 Issue 212

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this August 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Office
Thoughts from Home
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Office

Ten Commandments of Human Relations

1. Speak to people. There is nothing as nice as a cheerful word of greeting.

2. Smile at people. It takes 72 muscles to frown, only 12 to smile.

3. Call people by name. The sweetest music to anyone’s ears is the sound of one’s name.

4. Be friendly and helpful. To have a friend, be a friend.

5. Be cordial. Speak and act as if everything you do were a genuine pleasure.

6. Be genuinely interested in people. You can like almost everyone if you try.

7. Be generous with praise, cautious with criticism.

8. Be considerate with the feelings of others. There are usually three sides to a controversy: yours, the other person’s, and the right side.

9. Be alert to give service. What counts in life is what we do for others.

10. Have a good sense of humor, a big dose of patience, and a dash of humility. You will be rewarded many-fold.

These principles have been reprinted so many times I could not pinpoint the original author. A special thanks to my friend Nathan Einstein who continues to sort through sixty years of business wisdom and send me treasures like this.

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Thoughts from Home

Find fault or find a friend?

John and I first attended Rural Hill Scottish Festival with our then-young cousins Quincey and Nathan in spring 2014. It’s a perfect event for children, so this year we took our six-year-old neighbor Ella. Once again, a good time was had by all! I remembered that I wrote a piece for June 2014 newsletter and believe it is still meaningful today.

It was the warmest and sunniest weekend we’d had all year so the crowds were heavy. Children were given Scottish Passports to be stamped at the 70 clan tents around the field. In between meeting the proud clan representatives, we saw the bagpipe parade, sheep and duck herding by talented border collies, and athletic events including battle ax, tug-o-war, hammer throw, and clachneart competitions.

Lunchtime hunger struck everyone at once. The lines were long. The sun was hot. There were two types of people in line. Those that found fault and those that found friends. Fault finders complained about the heat, the lines, the wait, the lack of shade, and their impatient children. The friend finders were cheerful. They were meeting, greeting, and sharing personal stories as to what brought them to the event. I learned a lot about Scotland’s history from the two people I chatted with.

Moral of the story: The clock ticks away at the same rate for everyone. Why not make that time more pleasant by finding a friend rather than finding fault?

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Josmo’s Café

Two new crowd-pleasing recipes to share this month. Greek Yogurt Lemon Baked Chicken and Potato Wedges. I made the chicken dish for a neighborhood dinner. You know it’s good when several people ask for the recipe! The potato wedges are delicious. You’ll be making extra baked potatoes to have on hand. Enjoy!

Remember to check out our 100+ list of recipes on the Josmo’s Café website page.

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Selling Strategies Resources for in-house development

In-house group learning is back – thank goodness! Clients tell me that my three books – Selling from the Inside, Selling in a Hard Market, and Great Service Sells – continue to be valuable tools in developing a team culture to build relationships, retain business, and get referrals. Quantity discount pricing is $10.00 a book (mix and match) for orders of 25 or more plus shipping. Please reach out if interested.

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Stay Energized

I hope many of you have seen the uproarious British play The Play That Goes Wrong. It’s been playing in London to packed houses since 2012 and has made the rounds at many community theaters. John and I saw it in London in 2016. On a recent road trip, John and I were checking out the local PBS station in the hotel. As luck would have it, we discovered The Goes Wrong Show created by the same three writers Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields. The episode we saw was The Lodge. I found the full episode (with commercials unfortunately) on YouTube. Treat yourself to 30 minutes of side-splitting laughter.

Our Energizer Minute for August is Eat more ice cream.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter July 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

July 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter July 2023 Issue 211

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this July 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Office
Thoughts from the Road
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Office

Don’t dilute the soup

This experience came to mind when I learned that Ron Compton, a former general manager for Aetna Life and Casualty in the Pittsburgh office, passed away earlier this year. I started my career working for Ron as commercial casualty underwriter. He was a great mentor to me.

Ron made it a point to periodically take the trainees out to lunch. It wasn’t a preplanned or fancy meal. He’d just walk by and casually say, “Hey, do you have lunch plans today?” He’d take two or three of us across the street to a local diner.

One of my lunches with Ron was at the Souper Bowl. It was a hole-in-the-wall place full of Steeler paraphernalia and had good reliable food. As customary, we all ordered chili with extra saltine crackers. Moments later, the steaming bowls of chili arrived. Two bites into the chili, Ron announced, “This is the last time I’m eating here. They’re watering down the chili.” He went on, “Why do restaurants do that? Why, when a business has a great thing going, do they mess with success and drive away loyal customers by lowering their standards?”

Are you or your business guilty of diluting the soup? Intentionally or unintentionally, have you cut back on quality or customer service? Have you stopped following up with customers after a sale? Neglected to make annual phone calls to touch base or update their account? Is there someone in a position who is not doing a good job for your customers and you’re failing to do something about it?

Moral of the story. It never pays to dilute the soup.

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Thoughts from the Road

Walking the circle of life

My first experience with a labyrinth, the meditation and prayer spiral circle, was twenty-five years ago in San Francisco. Grace Cathedral on Nob Hill has an indoor and an outdoor labyrinth. The mindful walking experience represents a meandering, yet purposeful journey to our core, ultimately venturing back out in the world. I loved the serene space and reflective time walking each of them. Since then, I haven’t sought out labyrinths in my travels, so I’m always delighted when I happen upon one.

Last fall, John and I found a beautiful labyrinth within the Hopeland Gardens in Aiken, SC. In May, exploring historic Wilkesboro, NC, we discovered another at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Curious as to how many labyrinths there are and how many I’ve missed in my travels I did a search and uncovered some interesting facts.

It’s hard to say when labyrinths were first created. Some experts trace the oldest labyrinth back 4000 years. Some experts believe the oldest labyrinth was found in Greece around 1200 B.C.E. and other experts say the first recorded labyrinth was found in Egypt in the 5^th century B.C.E.

The first Saturday in May is World Labyrinth Day. There is a worldwide labyrinth locator. I found thirteen labyrinths in the city of Charlotte. They are at churches, hospitals, and community centers. Designs are noted as classical, contemporary, or medieval. They can be constructed with dirt, canvas, concrete, brick, tile, slate, or chiseled travertine.

There are no “right” thoughts or a “right” way to walk the labyrinth. Walking the path mirrors our life journey with twists and turns while passing others walking in a different direction.

Learn more by visiting Labyrinth Resource Group whose mission is to encourage the creation and use of labyrinths as a path of healing, inspiration, and peace.

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Josmo’s Café

I love watermelon season so I can make my favorite Watermelon Salad with Basil and Feta. What a wonderful combination of flavors!

Here’s a reminder on how to easily make silk-free corn on the cob and be amused watching this old-fashioned video by Ken.

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Selling Strategies Resources for in-house development

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Stay Energized

Vacation Packing List by Mary Davis

For yourself, patience.
For everyone you meet, kindness.
For the soul, relaxation.
For plans, flexibility.
For the journey, gratitude.
For all the above, grace.

Our Energizer Minute for July is Plugging in.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter June 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

June 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter June 2023 Issue 210

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Published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies
www.sellingstrategies.com
Copyright 2023 Emily Huling. All rights reserved.

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In this June 2023 issue:

Thoughts from Home
Thoughts from the Office
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from Home

My 10 most used pieces of life advice

You can’t always be happy, but you owe it to the world to be cheerful.
Do 25 sit-ups and 25 push-ups every day.
Never burn a bridge.
Do it for the experience.
Take the high road.
Remembering my mother’s words, “What does it cost you to be nice?”
Action dissipates anxiety.
Let people listen to themselves.
Respect other people’s time.
Always look your best.

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Thoughts from the Office

Are you a judger or a learner?

Two employees have the same job, report to the same supervisor, and have the same years of experience in the position. A recent system upgrade requires extensive training to become proficient. Both employees are given the same opportunity to learn the new applications. That’s where the similarities end.

The “judger” employee says to himself, “I’ll never learn this. It’s entirely different than the old system that works just fine, thank you. I’m going to get behind in my work while learning this.” Stress builds. Anger and frustration set in. The employee proves himself right – he doesn’t learn the system.

The “learner” employee says to himself, “This new system is different. I mastered the old one and I will master this one.” Eager to learn, this employee has an open mind, makes time for training, asks questions when he doesn’t understand, and makes notes to refer to.

Back on the job, the judger’s resistance to change and learning something new takes its toll. He worries about his job, what coworkers think, and what his boss will say. The learner, with confidence and purpose, takes his newfound knowledge and uses it to improve his job performance, help others when they have difficulty, and enhance his value to the department. His job satisfaction increases.

When presented with something new to learn, are you a judger or a learner?

Updated from a past issue.

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Josmo’s Café

Raspberry Crumb Bars are our new favorite dessert. Great texture of crunchy and gooey, not too sweet, and easy to make. Enjoy!

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Stay Energized

Have you been frustrated deciphering an online recipe because ads and videos are interspersed with the ingredient list and directions? Here’s the solution to remove all that clutter and start cooking! On Justtherecipe.com you simply paste the web address of the recipe you want and hit the Get Recipe button. Magically, the recipe appears in a straightforward printable format.

Our Energizer Minute for June is Check the level.

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Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter May 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

May 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter May 2023 Issue 209

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In this May 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Office
Thoughts from Home
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Office

Four words that strengthen business relationships

“I need your help.”

Three things happen when you ask a colleague or client for help.

You demonstrate that you have confidence and trust in their opinion or abilities.
You indicate willingness to work together which will cultivate two-way communication.
You open the door for them to ask you for help which reinforces your business relationship.

Not a bad return for four little words.

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Thoughts from Home

A lesson from animal crackers

Our good friend Lisa was babysitting her three-year-old granddaughter, Annie. They had been grocery shopping. When I saw them come home, I made a mad dash over to visit that darling child. In her tiny hands, Annie held a big bag of animal crackers, her reward for being good on their excursion. After eating the tiny cookies for about ten minutes, Lisa said, “Annie, that’s enough,” and reached over to take the bag away from her. Annie looked quizzically at her Nana before looking at the nearly full bag and said with certainty, “I’m not done.” Annie’s not alone in wanting to consume what she sees in front of her at one time.

The same principle holds true in our work and personal lives. When our to-do lists are overloaded with tasks, we are tempted to tackle one item until completion. Doing that can result in overwhelm and procrastination.

Instead of that approach, break down a big project into snack-size pieces. When we do that, more is accomplished. Managing a variety of obligations concentrated into shorter time periods increases focus and satisfaction.

Who would have thought a big bag of animal crackers in the hands of a three-year-old could teach a valuable lesson?

Note: Updated piece from a previous issue.

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Josmo’s Café

John and I were fondly remembering old-fashioned sweets we liked in years gone by. One of John’s favorite foods was pie crust cookies his mom made with leftover pie dough. Jello desserts were popular in my house. Here are two throwback desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. Pie Crust Cookies and Strawberry Cream Jello Dessert. Enjoy!

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Stay Energized

The Life Hacks daily calendar has been very useful to me this year. I’m now using Wordhippo.com and have loaded the app on my phone. It’s a word tool resource for synonyms, antonyms, phrases, rhymes, translations, and more.

Another beneficial tip I’m using now is asking people what they LIKE to do, rather than what they do. It’s a fun and interesting way to engage a new acquaintance in conversation.

Our Energizer Minute for May is When no one is looking.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter April 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

April 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter April 2023 Issue 208

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In this April 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Office
Thoughts from the Road
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Office

When Veronique Vienne wrote The Art of Doing Nothing in 1998, she could not have imagined how needed her philosophy, approach, and advice would be 25 years later. The chapter on the Art of Listening offers insight as to why being silent is so important. Here are a few of my favorite passages from this chapter.

“A major portion of what we think we just heard is the product of our imaginations. Without even knowing it, we fill missing gaps in other people’s utterances, correcting their grammar, interpreting their accents, adding punctuation, substituting words – all in all creating their speech as they go along. Usually, we can figure out what people are trying to say long before they stop rambling., Far from being passive, listening to someone talk is an active, inspired, and often compassionate act of creation.”

“The next time you attend a meeting, sit back, relax, and listen. Be the designated listener. Note how much concentration it takes just to follow every word of a verbal exchange. You don’t have to talk to be an active participant. As far as others are concerned, every one of your glances, head movements, smiles, or facial expressions is part of what is being said.”

“The more you listen to others, the more they will seek your approval.”

“Whoever listens most usually controls the situation.”

“Not saying anything when you have nothing to say will always prove wise.”

“Leave something unsaid. Don’t give every detail. Make room for mystery.”

Veronique Vienne is the author or co-author of dozens of books, not all translated into English. Her career centers on art and graphic design while at the same time writing beautiful and inspiring books to enhance and enrich life.

Many thanks to my long-time business friend Nathan Einstein for introducing me to this treasure of a book.

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Thoughts from the Road

“I’ll do it tomorrow.”

In March 2021, John and I spent time several weeks in Phoenix centered around attending the wedding of dear friends. Although we were sorry to miss our North Carolina early-blooming azaleas, camellias, and dogwoods, we were excited to see the desert in full bloom. We visited the Desert Botanical Garden, Boyce Thompson Arboretum and hiked in several beautiful state parks. My favorite walk however was each morning at daybreak when I walked the neighborhood streets. Each day I could watch the progress of the blooms on different cactuses. It was spectacular.

One day, seemingly out of nowhere, there were these amazing huge blossoms on a gorgeous cactus. I didn’t have my phone with me to take a picture. No problem, I thought, I’ll take the picture tomorrow.

It didn’t happen. It couldn’t happen. The next day when I returned with my camera in hand, the blooms were gone! GONE! Those gorgeous blooms were on the Argentine cactus which have a 24-hour life. Here’s a short time-lapse video of the flower blooming and other pictures of this magnificent cactus.

Moral of the story. We all put things off believing we can do it later. Taking a picture. Telling someone you love them. Keeping a promise. The Argentine cactus provided me a needed reminder that postponing an action can result in never having the opportunity again.

Originally published in April 2021.

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Josmo’s Café

We have another new chicken recipe to share. I’m back to using my Instant Pot and remembering how much I love it. Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is easy and fast. The light lemon flavor makes it a perfect early spring dinner.

New neighbors who came to dinner in March gave this Josmo’s Café menu a five-star rating so I want to share it with you. All the prep is done ahead of time so I could enjoy all the conversation. Salmon Baked with Dill Mustard Sauce, Roasted Asparagus with Kalamata Olives, and Near East brand Rice Pilaf. For dessert, we served Lemon Chess Pie with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh raspberries.

We have over 100 recipes on our Josmo’s Café page. If you haven’t visited the entire recipe list please take a look. I’m sure you’ll find something you will like!

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Stay Energized

Our Energizer Minute for April is The art of scrambling.

You know how much I enjoy learning from the NPR show Hidden Brain. I listened to an interview from 2020 with social psychologist Elizabeth Dunn called Happiness – Surprising Sources of Joy. What brings the most happiness? Experiences that make memories or material possessions? Listen or read the transcript and find out.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.

2023 Newsletter March 1, 2023 By Emily Huling 0 Comments

March 2023

Strategies for Success Newsletter March 2023 Issue 207

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In this March 2023 issue:

Thoughts from the Road
Thoughts from the Office
Josmo’s Cafe
Stay Energized

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Thoughts from the Road

When does a wedding become an anniversary?

Our friends Jack and Jill were telling us about their son’s wedding. It was an intimate ceremony with only close family present. Afterwards the small contingency went to a local fine-dining restaurant. A special menu was chosen by the bride with several selections for each course. Each guest was given a printed menu created by the restaurant. Jack put the menu in front of me. “Notice anything unusual?” he asked. I shook my head. Jack told me to look again at the top. The menu read “Tom and Bridget’s Anniversary Dinner.” Puzzling for sure. Wasn’t this a wedding celebration? “Not if calling it a wedding dinner has a 25% upcharge!” Jack explained.

Moral of the story. More than ever before, businesses that provide in-demand goods and services are taking advantage of consumers. It pays to start shopping early so you can take your time, do your homework, get competitive quotes in writing, and ask a lot of questions. It may pay to call a wedding event an anniversary celebration!

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Thoughts from the Office

15 Tips to Build a Stellar Reputation

What values do your colleagues and clients see when they interact with you? Are you building a positive reputation day in and day out? Use this checklist to pat yourself on the back or to identify areas to improve.

Replace “I’ll try” with “I will” to convey personal responsibility. If a resolution is not imminent, keep your agreement by providing updates.
Use positive language. Tell others what you can do, not what you can’t do.
Give credit to others.
Be on time.
Go beyond what’s expected. Deliver ahead of a deadline or provide additional information without being asked.
Don’t complain without offering a solution.
Admit your mistakes quickly. Do what you need to do to help fix the mistake.
Say please and thank you. Acknowledge extra effort by associates.
Master effective verbal and written communication. Be concise in your messaging by identifying what, who, when, why, what is requested, and response needed.
Use the Rule of 3. If an e-mail or text requires more than three messages, pick up the phone and talk.
Learn your job and do it well. Avoid asking questions of others on things you should know. Use the authority given to you to demonstrate knowledge and confidence.
Be open to others’ opinions and approaches. Be respectful when asking questions or conveying issues with another’s work.
Keep your online presence current. Double check for professionalism and accuracy.
When communicating in person, by video, or by phone, focus 100% of your attention on the person speaking.
Show interest in others. Make notes to remember about their family members, hobbies, and activities outside of work.

This piece has been updated from a previous issue.

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Josmo’s Café

Chicken has been on our table too many times this year! John will attest to it. I did try a new recipe that is worth sharing. Smoky Spinach Chicken Bake. A bit of prep work ahead of time, but worth it. I also made the reliable and tasty chicken dish Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken. Enjoy!

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Stay Energized

Take a delightful break from binging your favorite intense dramas and watch The Hidden Life of Pets on Netflix. This four-episode series covers intelligence, communication, super senses, and athletics. Fascinating, educational, and of course, amusing!

John and I love the Progressive Dr. Rick commercials on how to un-become your parents. Embarrassingly too true for me! After seeing the Book Signing commercial many times, I wondered if there really was a book. There is! It’s hilarious. Even better it’s an easy download and free. Thank you Progressive! Here’s the link to get your copy of Dr. Rick Will See You Now – The essential guide to un-becoming your parents.

Our Energizer Minute for March is Give it a week.

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Please share any of my free stuff, articles, or newsletter content when proper credit is included.

Strategies for Success Newsletter is published by Emily Huling Selling Strategies. For further information, contact emily@sellingstrategies.com.