It’s Conscious ~ we’re talking about Gratitude!

Have you ever thought about Gratitude as being contagious?

The definition of contagious according to Google is ‘to spread from one person to another by direct or indirect contact’ and ‘an emotion, feeling or attitude likely to spread to and affect others’.

As an experiment one day last week, I set up to notice the reactions of expressed gratitude to determine if gratitude is indeed contagious. Here’s what I learned and observed.

When someone held the door open foe me at Publix, I didn’t mumble a perfunctory, “thank you”, I stopped and made eye contact and said, “thank you for holding the door open”.  He said back with great enthusiasm and a big smile, “you are welcome”. And I heard him say “good morning” to others as he left the store with a bounce in his step. I resolved to stop rushing and really say, “thank you” with eye contact and make the expression of gratitude real and personal. Making gratitude contagious. Spread it.

It matters.

Another experiment happened when having to return something at Penney’s. The cashier was efficient, and I thought she looked tired. I asked, “has it been a long day?” She looked up. We made eye contact. We smiled at each other. She nodded. “Thank you for being so efficient. I wish I could buy you a coffee.” She said, “you just did”. My .

Join me in this experiment and let me know your experiences. It’s quite magical.tag

The post It’s Contagious first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

People Want Trust and Connection Not Just a Sales Pitch

Understanding Why People Prefer Relationships Over Sales

In the modern marketplace, the preference of consumers has shifted from simply being sold a product to building meaningful relationships with brands. This subtle yet profound change highlights that people want more than transactions—they want connections. When customers feel valued and understood, confidence naturally builds, fostering trust that precedes any purchasing decision.

The desire to avoid feeling like a sales target reflects a broader social and psychological trend. Today’s consumers often seek brands that listen, engage, and interact genuinely rather than push messages aggressively. The difference between being sold to and being involved in a relationship can define the success or failure of marketing efforts.

The Concept of Return on Relationship and Its Importance

Return on Relationship, often abbreviated as ROR, captures the idea that nurturing customer relationships yields long-term value. Unlike immediate sales metrics or short-term campaigns, ROR focuses on the benefits accrued through sustained connections with customers. This can lead to higher engagement, increased loyalty, and eventually, greater sales conversion.

Building relationships is akin to investing in mutual trust. The currency isn’t just in dollars, but in interactions, shared experiences, and emotional bonds. When these investments grow, brands reap rewards that financial reports might not immediately reflect but become apparent over time through consistent patronage.

Common Mistakes in Pursuing Return on Relationship

One of the most frequent errors brands make is confusing relationship-building with direct selling. Many mistakenly treat social media and other connected platforms as just another channel to broadcast sales messages. Instead of fostering dialogue, they commit the blunder of overwhelming potential customers with non-stop promotions.

Another misstep occurs when brands view customer relationships from a purely transactional perspective. Approaching these connections with an intent to quickly close sales neglects the fundamental human need for trust and respect. Without this foundation, efforts to deepen customer engagement tend to fall flat.

The Pitfall of Broadcasting Instead of Engaging

Broadcasting refers to the practice of sending out mass messages with little or no opportunity for meaningful interaction. This approach often alienates audiences. When people are constantly bombarded with advertisements without a chance to respond or share their views, they tend to disengage.

Successful relationship-building requires listening before talking. Engagement springs from understanding what customers care about and providing opportunities for two-way conversations. Brands that merely broadcast seem disinterested in their audience’s needs beyond immediate sales targets.

Avoiding the Trap of Using Social Media as a Direct Marketing Channel

Social media platforms are frequently mistaken for just another platform to send promotional content. However, these platforms thrive on community and connection. Using them solely for direct marketing diminishes their potential to create genuine relationships.

Consumers flock to social channels for discussion, advice, entertainment, and connection—not just to receive sales pitches. Brands that fail to adjust their approach risk losing followers and damaging their reputation. Instead, social media should be leveraged as a space to provide value and build trust gradually.

Building Trust Through Listening and Engagement

Listening actively to customers’ concerns, preferences, and feedback lays the foundation for meaningful relationships. Brands that prioritize this dialogue show respect and invite deeper connection. This approach creates an environment where trust can flourish.

Once trust begins to build, engagement becomes more authentic and effective. Responding thoughtfully to feedback and participating in conversations demonstrates a brand’s commitment beyond simply selling a product. This two-way street strengthens the bond with customers.

Creating Emotional Connections with Your Audience

Emotional bonds are the cornerstone of loyalty. When customers feel emotionally connected to a brand, they are more likely to remain loyal, recommend it to others, and continue purchasing.

Creating these connections requires brands to be relatable and empathetic. Sharing stories, values, and experiences that align with customers’ own lives fosters these emotional ties. Genuine emotional connections cannot be rushed; they develop over time through consistent interaction.

The Role of Helpful Content and Interactive Communication

Providing helpful content tailored to customer needs and interests is a powerful way to engage. Instead of pushing products explicitly, offering valuable information, solutions, or entertainment invites customers to interact without feeling pressured.

Interactive communication, such as asking questions, encouraging feedback, and facilitating discussion, helps solidify relationships. This creates an interactive community around the brand, moving beyond passive consumption toward shared experiences and participation.

How Relationship Building Leads to Loyalty and Increased Sales

Trust and emotional connections cultivated through relationship-building translate directly into customer loyalty. Loyal customers tend to be repeat buyers, and their continued support often results in higher lifetime value.

This loyalty also influences sales naturally. When customers believe in and trust a brand, they are more inclined to make purchases without hesitation. Thus, the path from relationship to sales is not abrupt but fluid and sustainable.

Practical Steps to Foster Genuine Customer Relationships

Steps to cultivate authentic relationships begin with shifting the mindset from selling to connecting. Brands should focus on:

– Listening carefully to customer feedback and responding promptly.

– Sharing content that educates, entertains, or solves problems.

– Encouraging two-way communication on social media and other channels.

– Avoiding hard sells until trust has been firmly established.

– Demonstrating empathy and understanding in all interactions.

– Recognizing customers as individuals rather than just numbers.

Consistency and sincerity in these efforts go a long way. Building solid relationships requires patience and dedication.

Measuring the Success of Relationship-Focused Marketing

Traditional marketing metrics often emphasize immediate sales and conversion rates. However, relationship-focused marketing demands a broader set of measures.

Engagement rates, customer feedback, repeat purchase frequency, and referral rates all provide insight into the health of relationships. Monitoring social sentiment and community growth can also reflect trust and connection.

While these may not show instant financial returns, they are key indicators of long-term brand strength and customer loyalty, which eventually contribute to sustainability.

Conclusion: Shifting Mindsets from Selling to Relationship Building

Shifting the focus from aggressive selling to nurturing authentic relationships is essential for today’s brands. People prefer connections that inspire confidence and trust before making buying decisions.

Avoiding common pitfalls like broadcasting and direct marketing misapplications creates space for meaningful engagement. When brands listen, respond, and create emotional connections through helpful content and sincere communication, they build loyalty that naturally leads to increased sales.

Moving forward, adopting a relationship-first approach fosters deeper customer appreciation and sustainable success far beyond individual transactions.

The post People want Trust first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

I’m sharing everything happening so you can pick what works for you and plug in. No PDFs, no clicking around. Just scroll and choose your next move.

 JUNE LINEUP

 TODAY @ 5:30 PM
Marketing Magic Membership Q&A
Got questions? Let’s talk about what MMM offers and how it fits your marketing goals.

Join the Marketing Magic Membership by clicking here: https://my.lanebc.com/marketing-magic-membership. There are a few founding member slots still available for $47 per month forever!!! Grab one if you want to get your marketing working for you.

 Wednesday, June 18 @ 8:00 AM
Pasco County Alignable Alliance – East Pasco Breakfast
I serve as the Pasco County Alignable Alliance’s Ambassador! Every month I host three in-person networking events that are welcome to all interested in joining the alliance and connecting with other local business owners. Normally, this would be a 11:00 – 1:00pm Lunch for East Pasco residents, but this month, we’re trying something different! Starting this month on June 18th, The Pasco County meeting will be breakfast meetups —  8:00 AM to 9:30 AM — on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at The Village Inn on 5214 Gall Blvd in Zephyrhills! Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with local businesses and make those important connections to build your business.

RSVP here: https://www.alignable.com/groups/alignable-alliance-of-land-o-lakes-fl/events/in-person-networking-lunch-east-pasco-jun-2025?_faid=17413

 Tuesday, June 24 @ 4:00 PM
Monthly MasterClass – Visibility
Visibility isn’t optional. It’s a strategy. Join us to sharpen how you show up and stand out.

Register for the zoom link: https://my.lanebc.com/monthly-workshops

 Wednesday, June 25 @ 12:00 PM
Pasco County Alignable Alliance – BYOL
Take advantage of the opportunity to build your business connections with other local businesses by coming to the in-person BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) meeting on Wednesday, June 25th. We meet 12:00 – 1:00 pm at 4 & Co., 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes.

RSVP here: https://www.alignable.com/groups/alignable-alliance-of-land-o-lakes-fl/events/bring-your-own-lunch-byol-jun-2025?_faid=17413

 Wednesday, June 25 @ 7:00 PM
Marketing Magic Forum (Open to MMM members)
Become a member and get a taste of what the membership delivers—live coaching, peer feedback, and clear next steps.

Join the Marketing Magic Membership by clicking here: https://my.lanebc.com/marketing-magic-membership. There are a few founding member slots still available for $47 per month forever!!! Grab one if you want to get your marketing working for you.

 Thursday, June 26 @ 7:00 PM
MeetUp – Presentation Skills Group
Practice your delivery, boost confidence, and get speaking-ready in a supportive space.

Join our MeetUp group here: https://www.meetup.com/public-speakers-community-of-tampa-bay/

 Every Friday @ 8:00 AM
Coffee with the Coach
Come as you are. This is a casual, real-time conversation about what’s working and what needs a tweak. Business talk. Real talk. BYO coffee.

Join here: https://my.lanebc.com/coffee-with-the-coach

 COMING IN JULY
BOYB: Brag On Your Business Series
July 15, 22, 29 @ Noon and  7:00 PM  (Come to one or both sessions. Same topic and content at noon and 7:00 pm)
In this 3-part series, we dive into the science of visibility and Google My Business so you can build influence and authority—without burning out.

Want to join something? Got questions? Hit reply.
I’d love to see you at one (or more) of these.

P.S.: I have a gift for you.. a FREE Daily Action Marketing Calendar to help you promote your business! Click here to grab your FREE copy!

And while you’re still here… Join my Facebook Group: Business Ninjas | Facebook

This group is focused on business topics and how to support and connect to make business happen!

To Making Magic happen!

Lorraine

The post June Is A Busy Month first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

Business success is about who you know and, more importantly, who knows YOU!

Planning, strategy, marketing, visibility, and innovation are the unnoticed engines that drive success; it’s relationships that make the real difference.

Why Business Relationships Matter

What was the last big opportunity that you experienced in your business? Was it an outreach that led to a business partnership? Was it a referral? A past client calling to ask to do business with you again? Or did a random connection introduce you to a fantastic opportunity? For most business owners, the most significant successes result from business relationships – not random chance.

Strong relationships open doors to:

• Referrals and WOM (Word of Mouth) marketing.
• Trust and credibility in you and your business.
• A supportive network.
• Collaboration and affiliations
• Opportunities for expanded business.

When you focus on building meaningful relationships, you aren’t just growing your contact list – you are creating an ecosystem of support and connections.

Key Ingredients for Strong Business Connection

Authenticity. You know the mantra: “People do business with people they know, like, and trust.” Show a real and genuine interest in others. 

Consistency. A one-time conversation at a networking event isn’t enough to build a relationship. The best business connections are a result of follow-up and staying in touch. 

Reciprocity. Share helpful resources, make introductions, support the work of others, and be generous in the giving. Asking before giving is a sure way to stop connections from happening!

Active Listening. Listen more than you talk. Learn to ask thoughtful questions and show that you value what others have to say.

Intentional Connections. Strong networks are built on connections with people who align with your values, complement your skills, and serve with .

A business card doesn’t equal a relationship! It takes intention and attention to convert contacts into connections.

• Follow up. Make it your practice to send a message mentioning something about your conversation.
• Stay in Touch. Be aware of the ways that you can engage. Whether it’s on social media or an invitation to meet for coffee or event, you need to take ownership to deepen your connections.
• BE a Connector. Look for opportunities to make introductions. When you bring value to your business relationships, your connections will reciprocate.

Reach out to someone in your network and ask if you can support them, celebrate a win with them, or simply reconnect. The ripple effects of this action can be transformative.  

If you’re up to the task, here’s my challenge to you: Build ONE Stronger Connection this week!

If you’re eager for MORE ways to create connections and attract clients..

Consider joining my Facebook group, Networking Ninjas, where we take networking seriously!

The post Connections Drive Success first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

Would you be surprised to know that if you set more challenging and very specific goals, you are more likely to achieve them than if you set easily accomplished goals? Uncanny, right?

Goal setting is often considered a throw-away exercise, however, when given thought and appropriate deep work, it can be the difference between success and wishful thinking. It takes courage to declare challenging goals and do the work to achieve them. So, real and effective goal setting isn’t for the faint of heart!

You would think that easier goals would produce better performance But… research says otherwise.Here are a few other goal-setting facts that you’ll enjoy:

• 48% of successful goal-setters report that they always write down their goals.
• A whopping 90% of the time higher performance is a result of setting specific and challenging goals.
• 80% of adults in the United States set personal health or fitness goals. I couldn’t find statistics that indicate whether or not these goals are reached. 
   

The four stages of goal setting are as follows:

1. Preparation
Preparation is the foundation for successful goal setting. This stage involves self-reflection and understanding the “why” behind your goals. Begin by evaluating your current situation: where you are now and where do you want to be? 

To properly prepare:

• Assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis).
• Identify what motivates you and what challenges could stand in your way.
• Gain clarity on your core values and align them with your goals.
• Ensure your goals are meaningful and relevant to your long-term vision.
• This is also the time to gather necessary resources, knowledge, or tools you’ll need for success. Think of it as clearing the runway before takeoff.

2. Goal Setting
Once you’re clear on your purpose, it’s time to define your goals. This step turns your vision into something concrete and actionable. The key here is to make your goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. 

During this phase, consider:

• Write down your goals to solidify commitment.
• Break larger goals into smaller, more manageable milestones.
• Make sure your goals are challenging enough to inspire growth, but realistic enough to be achievable.
• Visualize the desired outcome to create emotional connection and motivation. 
   

3. Planning
After defining your goals, the next step is to create a detailed roadmap for achieving them. A good plan serves as your guide, helping you stay on track and adjust course when necessary. Incorporating tools like calendars, task management apps, or accountability systems will enhance this process. 

To effectively plan:

• Outline specific actions or steps required for each goal.
• Assign deadlines to each milestone to maintain momentum.
• Anticipate potential obstacles and plan strategies to overcome them.
• Prioritize tasks to focus on what matters most.
   

4. Follow-Up
Follow-up is the critical, often overlooked phase that ensures your goals stay alive. Consistent follow-up builds momentum and ensures that your goals remain a priority rather than fading into the background.

This step includes:

• A regular review of progress to celebrate wins and identify areas for improvement.
• Adjustment of your plan or goals as circumstances evolve. Flexibility is essential for long-term success.
• Seeking accountability through mentors, peers, or groups to stay motivated and focused.
• Reflection on lessons learned from successes and setbacks to refine your approach.

While all of that may be challenging… Joining one of my MasterClasses on Business and Self Promotion is EASY! 

You’ll learn how to show up so you are really seen by potential clients. Once you are visible, you’ll need a strategy to convert that visibility into clients! Then you’ll make the magic happen.  

Register here at the following link: https://my.lanebc.com/boyb-selfpromotion

The post Goal Setting – It’s Not For the Faint! first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

As a business owner or entrepreneur, most likely, you’ve set countless goals—some you’ve crushed, others you didn’t quite hit. 

But here’s a thought: Did those goals have vision?

Simon Sinek says, “Working hard for something we don’t care about is called stress. Working hard for something we love is called passion.” 

Vision gives your goals that passion. Without a clear sense of why you’re working toward something, even the most ambitious plans can feel like an uphill battle.

This month, we’re diving deep into goal setting and vision at the Master Class on January 28th (4:00 pm EST). It’s not your usual “S.M.A.R.T. goals” talk—we’re flipping the script. 

Here’s a taste of what we’ll explore:

• How to tap into your growth mindset (inspired by Carol Dweck) to redefine success.
• Why starting with your “why” (thank you, Simon Sinek!) turns ordinary goals into unstoppable missions.
• Practical tools and handouts to align your goals with your unique vision.

Want to feel energized and clear about your next steps? Join us for a conversation that could completely reshape the way you approach your year—and your business.

Save your spot now and invest in your vision.

Register for the Master Class Here

The post Do Your Goals Have Vision? first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

When you think about the “North Star” for your business, you would be referring to your business vision. This is the guiding influence or inspiration for you as you build your business.

The term “North Star” refers to Polaris, which has been used for navigation for centuries because it is fixed in the night sky. The north star symbolizes a constant reference point that helps you find your way. In other words, it serves as a GPS for your business.

Your vision statement is more than a sentence—it’s the guiding light for your business. It communicates where you’re headed and why you’re in business, serving as inspiration for you and your customers.

Take a moment to ask yourself: 

• Where do I see my business in 1, 3 or 5 years?
• What actions will I take to get there?
• What impact do I want to create?

For example, a bakery’s vision might be: “To bring joy to local families through handcrafted, sustainable, and delicious baked goods.” A well-crafted vision statement helps you make decisions, stay focused, and keep your team aligned. When challenges arise, revisiting your vision can remind you of the bigger picture and reignite your passion. 

As you move through 2025, make sure that every goal and initiative you pursue aligns with your North Star.  

And while you are at it- Join my Facebook Group: Networking Ninjas | Facebook where we take networking seriously!

The post The North Star of Your Business first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

Are you feeling that “ I should” pressure to dive into resolutions, goals, or intentions because it’s a new year?

Everywhere you look, there’s this unspoken expectation: If you don’t set big goals, you can’t be serious about achieving anything this year! Maybe that’s why you didn’t overachieve last year? Guilt! Guilt! Guilt!

January has become the month of BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals)—the time to dream BIG, pile on the ambitions, and declare: This is my year! In a very loud voice! Blogs, articles, and posts bombard you with a familiar subtext: You’ve been slacking off, and now it’s time to step up. Put on those “big boy” or “big girl” pants, and let’s hustle. Rah! Rah! Rah!

Here’s the reality: You’re not going to wake up an hour earlier every day just because it’s January 1st, nor will you magically become hyper-organized if you’ve spent the past two decades drowning in chaos. So… what if you take a different approach this year?

Instead of forcing and squeezing yourself into someone else’s vision of success, take some time to explore what truly energizes you. What lights you up? What goals align with your authentic self—not the version you think you should be?

Stop trying to follow someone else’s map. Create your own. Follow your GPS.

If you’re ready to break free from the guilt and the “I shoulds,” I’ve got something for you: 5 Action Steps to Activate Your Inner Wisdom and design a plan that works for you. No pressure. No guilt. Just clarity.

Send me a message with “2025” to get your copy and start the year your way. Sound good?

Make Every Day a Great Day…Because You Can!

The post Feeling the Pressure to Set Goals? first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” according to William Arthur Ward

Do you ever feel that you’re sailing through the busyness of daily life like a boat without a captain? You’re setting goals and making every attempt to achieve them. You’re paying attention to your health because you know you need to, and with all the commercials and focus on being healthy, you don’t want to appear to be a slacker! You know you need to spend quality time with your family and friends. And your calendar is already overflowing. You’re jumping from one thing to another non stop.

And then … you realize that your alignment with your Higher Purpose might be suffering neglect. Wowzers! How do you fit it all in?

And then…. you are encouraged to be grateful. Because November is National Gratitude Month. Be grateful for all your blessings.

Yes, we’re in the depths of challenging times, and it’s easy to feel like life is an endurance test. Are the people in your life who matter most, as well as your body and business, conspiring against you? When thoughts about throwing in the towel haunt you, it’s a powerless place to be. And certainly not a happy place.

There is one powerful thing that can break the chains of feeling like a victim, and that is gratitude. It’s a life-changing shift of your focus from heartache, frustration, isolation, sadness, distress, and just plain blahness… to recognizing all you have to be grateful for.  Take a 5 – 10 minute break and just breathe. Think of one – just one 1⃣- thing that you are grateful for today. It could be that check that came in the mail (happy dance!) or that your kid actually said, “thank you” for making dinner! Or your orchid is going to blossom! It’s the little things. And, it takes noticing and taking the moment to feel into the gratitude.

The journey from victim to empowered is through gratitude – gratitude expressed. Take the first step. Then the second and third steps will follow. Give the gift. It’s so worth it.

The post Are You Feeling It? first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.

Have you ever found yourself scolded into feeling grateful? Urgings from mothers, dads, teachers and other wise ones who preach that gratitude is the key to happiness , and we must express it. But the real magic of gratitude comes not from coercion, but from its honest and natural expression.

At its core, gratitude is alive when it flows freely and naturally not when it’s forced. It’s about finding appreciation in the simplest of things, not because we’re guilt-tripped into it.

Forced gratitude is inauthentic. Others have it worse so stop being an ingrate! Coercing ourselves or being coerced into the state of gratitude doesn’t reflect our genuine feelings and awareness.

I recall my early resistance to my mother insisting that I say “thank you” and express gratitude to my grandparents or other relatives for their gifts. The “thank you” was rote, and didn’t come from my heart . Not that I wasn’t grateful, but the “thank you” was not really mine.

It wasn’t until I consciously began to notice small joys like the sensation of raindrops on my face, the rustle of autumn leaves as I walked to school, the smell of bread baking in the local bakery, or the taste of my mom’s apple pie – precious moments that sparked real gratitude in me. I didn’t have to be scolded into those enriching experiences.

Embracing Gratitude

I appreciate Arianna Huffington’s words, Living in a state of gratitude is the gateway to grace.

Moving beyond the scold to embrace gratitude as personal awareness and discovery of the beauty of everyday moments, and to express gratitude with heartfelt sincerity, makes life truly blessed.

Thank you for reading.

Our theme for November is Gratitude and our monthly workshop takes place on November 28th at 4:00 pm  (ET).  Click here for the ZOOM link.

Make today a great day…because you can!

Lorraine

The post Learning to be Grateful Without Having to be Scolded! first appeared on Lane Business Consulting.