The SmallBizLady Buzz - Issue 239

Travel could help you grow your business.

Engaging in international experiences can unlock a world of personal and professional enrichment. Whether through travel, learning a new language, or participating in cross-cultural programs, exposure to diverse global perspectives enhances personal growth and prospects in significant ways.

In September, I traveled to Cambodia to train women entrepreneurs on online marketing skills and capacity building. I lectured to 400 people in a week. I was invited to this opportunity by the U.S. State Department to help launch the Academy of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) in that country. It was an intense week and one of the most enlightening experiences I have ever had, and I can’t wait to go back. Cambodia has wide range of entrepreneurs. They export mangoes, coffee, cashews, teas and manufacture textiles. It is a melting pot of Southeast Asia, you can find any kind of Asian food there, and it’s all amazing and cheap. I traveled to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and got a change to see Angkor Wat, the world’s largest Hindu temple, and one the seven wonders of the world. The sunrise over the temple was magical to see. The ironic thing is that Cambodia is a majority Buddhist country.

Exploring new countries and cultures brings an understanding of the values, traditions, and ways of life unique to each region. This heightened cultural awareness allows us all to better connect with people from various backgrounds, improving empathy and interpersonal skills. Experiencing different cultures often challenges long-standing perspectives, encouraging more open-mindedness and resilience, which can be life-changing in many ways.

International environments often foster adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams. Additionally, international travel allows individuals to build an expansive network of professional contacts, opening doors to collaborations, partnerships, and mentorships on a global scale. Travel, particularly when navigating different languages and customs, can also build cognitive flexibility, confidence, and teaching skills, like the ability to think outside the box to find innovative solutions, decision-making and effective communication.

Beyond the professional benefits, international experiences enrich our lives by broadening our view of the world. They provide a chance to reflect on personal values, spark new interests, and even inspire new passions.

Plan a trip for 2025.

Check out this week’s featured post: 10 Things You Should Consider Before Buying Social Media Ads

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10 Things You Should Consider Before Buying Social Media Ads

Social media selling is a powerful tool that can help businesses reach their target audience, increase brand awareness, and drive sales. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok offer diverse advertising options that cater to different objectives and audiences. However, before diving into social media advertising, there are several key factors to consider. In this article, we discuss 10 important things you should consider before buying social media ads on any platform. Continue reading....

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The SmallBizChat Podcast: Beware of the New Business Barbie with Melinda Emerson

Check out this solo podcast episode: Beware of the New Business Barbie with Melinda Emerson

In this solo episode, I share why business coaching is a great way to achieve your desired business results, but why you should be wary of hiring an inexperienced ‘new business barbie.’ I explain how to get the most out of the coaching process and how to ensure that you’re coachable, ready to set goals, and commit to reaching them with the support of your coach. I also dive into the three central reasons why, occasionally, coaching doesn’t work and how to avoid those pitfalls.

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Melinda F. Emerson, “SmallBizLady” is America’s?#1?Small Business Expert. She?is an internationally renowned keynote speaker on small business development, marketing and social selling. Melinda is also the president of the Quintessence Group, an award-winning marketing consulting firm based in Philadelphia, PA, serving Fortune 500 brands who target small business market. LinkedIn named her a Top Voice for 2019 in Small Business and Entrepreneurship.?In addition to being a former NY Times columnist, she is frequently quoted by media organizations including The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, MSNBC, CNBC and Fox News. She is the host of #Smallbizchat LIVE and The SmallBizChat Podcast. A prolific writer, Melinda has published more than 5000 articles on her blog www.succeedasyourownboss.com . Her small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. She is the bestselling author of Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, Revised and Expanded and Fix Your Business, a 90 Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Reduce Chaos in Your Business.