Posts tagged Jason Loeb
Come On, Get Happy!
Jun 21st
I get asked a lot about how I always seem so happy. The answer is simple: I love what I do and who I do it with.
OK, the dry cleaning and rug & drapery cleaning business admittedly isn’t the most glamorous… But my team is. No matter the industry, a business is ultimately about the people. As a team, we make each other happy… what’s more glamorous than that?
When I first started Sudsies and Rugsies, I spent a lot of time finding others who share my vision and caring passion. Having a commonality in our emphasis on integrity and character makes it authentic and easy to work with one another. Together, we’ve created a culture, a real community, where we thrive on helping each other and our clients. Even when one of us is having an off day, the smiles and support from the other members transfer back that positivity.
Want to know what else keeps me happy? Giving people a purpose, myself included. It’s not enough to just be surrounded by great people; the group should serve greatness too. I enjoy helping others, not only by providing them a position within the company, but also by ensuring that they receive every opportunity to learn, grow, and be empowered to find their highest role. It could be sending them to continuing educations seminars, providing leadership guidance, or granting them the freedom to get creative when assuring that the client has that above-and-beyond experience that bonds them to both the person and the brand.
So there you have it, my secret to happiness. Yes, it first has to come from within, although helping others also find a piece of contentment is what sustains an overall deep satisfaction for all… The best way to jumpstart your own journey to happiness is simple. Smile!
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Personify Your Business Through You
May 3rd
In my career as a small businessman, one of the things I’m most proud of is the brand Sudsies and Rugsies have come to represent. While clean clothes and carpets are valued, at the end of the day, our customers identify most with our can-do attitude and friendly smiles. Our team enlivens those happy faces that swirl around our logos. We truly live like the organization we present.
Think about your favorite brands. Each represents a unique personality, but all have the following in common when connecting with their audiences.
They’re Clear:
It’s important to be both clear and transparent. Be open and honest. Know who you are and keep it concise.
They’re Consistent:
If you exhibit one behavior one day and another the next, people will be left scratching their heads. Yes, change in the form of evolution is important to continue growth and relevancy, but at the core, know who you are. Don’t deviate from your foundational beliefs. That goes for your team too. Fill your team with members who share in your passion – it makes for much more authentic culture. Consistency also applies to the level of service… clients need to feel they can count on you EVERY TIME.
They’re Compelling:
A business provides a product or service… a brand represents the personality that transforms the product or service into an experience. Honor the spirit and spark within you every day; in every connection you make. Think about what drives you and use that to find new ways to reach both loyal and new clients.
Whether you own your own business or are employed by one, YOU ultimately convey what the brand is about. So, live like you are that brand. Remember you inject life into an otherwise inanimate entity. If you apply this approach, I think you’ll find an even greater joy in both your professional and personal lives.
Here’s to a brand new you!
Will You Tell a Friend?
Sep 10th
One of the best sources of new customers is referrals. They are pre-qualified by our existing customers to get something out of our services and are likely to already have a favorable view. It’s also the highest testament to how we are currently running our business. If we’re doing a good job, people tend to share their experience with their friends.
But sometimes our customers need a little encouragement, or simple reminding, to make that referral. Similarly, I hope that your membership experience with the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce has been a positive and rewarding one. If we’ve fulfilled our promise, I encourage you to tell your friends, colleagues and other contacts about the benefits of joining our organization.
I can’t believe that it’s been 17 years since I joined the Chamber. I’m proud of its growth and we are able to accomplish bigger and better goals every day because of the diversity and strength of the group. Along the way, I’ve met so many individuals who have inspired me, mentored me, or even did a simple favor that helped catapult my business, as well as help me grow as a professional. Everyday, I enjoy reconnecting with old colleagues, many of whom have become friends too, but also meeting new faces at the Chamber and drawing from their own fresh ideas.
We always refer to the passion of our members, and I urge you to remember that part of that passion is sharing the Chamber with others. Tell your contacts. If the Chamber grows, we also grow as members. More minds means more resources and power to tap into. We not only have a first rate-network representing a broad spectrum of industries, but a world-class community with economic vitality, social purpose and connected residents.
Miami Beach is truly a sophisticated city, running on a global scale. Within there is so much talent and perspectives that we could all learn from. As Chamber members, it is our duty to also help them in achieving their aspirations. So start spreading the word!
At your service,
Jason Loeb.
Give Some Summer Lovin’
Aug 3rd
I guess the adage “time flies when you’re having fun” is really true, as Summer always seem to speed by so quickly. Just one month left before it’s back-to-school for the kids and back-to-the-grind for us. Hopefully, you are able capture quality time with a family vacation, but this time of year also presents the perfect opportunity to reconnect with our professional family.
Think of all your advocates: contacts, mentors, loyal customers, etc. While they have contributed to your business tremendously, have you done anything recently to return the support? If not, this is the month to do so. Understandably, it takes enormous time and effort to build and grow our business with varying meetings, tasks, and initiatives tugging for our attention, but it’s also important every once in awhile to stop and recognize our successes to date… and how we got here. I suggest reaching out to these people to show your appreciation. It could be a loyalty rewards program, scheduling that lunch you’ve been talking about doing for the past six months, or a simple note to say hello and thank you. In business, money may motivate, but people are the true resource in helping you achieve your goals. Plus, it’s the human connection that makes work enjoyable and worthwhile.
Express your gratitude, then pay it forward. Find a promising up-and-comer or a start-up with a compelling mission and lend your support. We all need a little help sometimes, even if its just advice and guidance. Miami Beach is an inspiring background in which to pursue a dream, and this city’s success and sustainability relies on its community working to help one another realize these aspirations.
I hope this summer leaves you refreshed and ready for the upcoming high season. Remember to enjoy and take advantage of these quieter moments, for they can be just as valuable as career peaks. In the meantime, we at the Chamber are always available and happy to help you make the right connections.
At your service,
Jason Loeb
Chairman
3 Steps to Making Great Business Connections
Jul 22nd
Here at the Chamber, we always talk about the power of relationships. Our team works hard to bring our membership events that create an ideal setting in which to make these connections. But in the end, it all comes down to one thing: your ability to network.
Networking is imperative to growing a business, yet it’s a daunting task for many. Some thrive within a crowded room… others shrink at the thought of facing so many strangers in one place. Successful networking doesn’t require a certain personality, but it does take a few key skills. Here are a few tips to help maximize your time at next Chamber event, or any networking function:
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Genuinely get to know the person: Have you ever returned from an event with a pile of business cards, but no real idea of any of the people behind them? The “speed dating” approach certainly gets you in front of a lot of people, but rarely results in qualified leads. Spend a little extra time with each person you meet. Talk to them about their aspirations for their business first and offer your assistance in meeting those goals. Once at ease, they’ll be more apt to want to hear about you. Then its your turn to shine and state your needs.
- Search for commonality: Wallflowers can’t expect the introductions to magically happen. Sure, it can be intimidating going up to someone you don’t know, so search for people you’re likely to have something share something with. It could be a conversation about tennis you just overhead or a article of clothing you admire. It gives you a good jumping point to spark the conversation, but also establishes commonality. People like and want to do business with others whom they relate to.
- Get comfortable: Yes, sometimes we have to step outside our comfort zone to make things happen, but you don’t want to be a complete outsider either. When RSVPing to networking events, think about the type of people and places you want to be around. After all, it is these contacts with whom we will hopefully be working with long-term. Sustainable relationships can’t be forced…If you can’t relate to the overall vibe of a networking event, chances are, you won’t feel comfortable with doing business with the people found there.
Networking is like a boomerang, help others and they’re more apt to help you. Perhaps you won’t meet as many people in a night (luckily, we have plenty of activities planned for you to capture time with hopefully all our members), but I assure you that these approaches will open avenues that are more effective and meaningful for your business.
At your service,
Jason Loeb
Chairman
Your Happy Staff
Jun 25th
Job Satisfaction!
Ever wonder where all your time goes? According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average work day accounts for nearly 41% of our day (sleeping claims another chunk at 32%). As leaders, we probably dedicate even more time to our companies. This statistic underscores the importance of the adage “love what you do.” Otherwise, that is a lot of unhappy hours you’re allowing to pass by.
The health and sustainability of a company is rooted in the job satisfaction of its employees. The secret is simple: build a positive company culture. Sure, business is a serious matter, but that doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate a little play into the professional mix. For example, my team at Sudsies recently created a “Smile Campaign” highlighting the many positive personalities across South Florida. Some of you may have seen the yellow happy face photos indicative of the initiative. It’s simple, but also contagious (come on, it’s nearly impossible not to respond to big smile) and a great way to get both employees and customers involved and build upon their relationship. Who knew dirty clothes could be so fun?
As a tourism-based economy, it is our duty to be warm and welcoming to our visitors and fellow residents. People frequent venues they feel good about, otherwise they’ll move on. The only way to create this authentic quality service is to embed it in your company culture. This relies on us having the right attitude, talking the talk and walking the walk…all while grinning. Your employees are dedicating substantial hours to helping grow your business – why wouldn’t we make their time here as enjoyable as possible? So come on, get happy. Putting a little creative business spin on the “Field of Dreams” prophecy, if you build it with positivity, the customers will come.
At your service,
Jason Loeb
Chairman
What is your mission statement?
Jun 4th
This week, I’d like to take a moment and go back to our roots. Miami Beach has certainly undergone a series of transformations since the Chamber’s humble, yet enthusiast beginnings in 1921. But one thing that has remained constant over the past 90 years is our mission. The Chamber statement is simple:
To promote the economic well-being of Miami Beach’s citizens, to improve the quality of life for the entire community, and to communicate the view of the business community on major issues of public policy.
I stand by the notion that it is in fact the people that deliver on an organization, a community. However, there needs to be an anchoring force that focuses these people’s passion and ensures their efforts are maximized in the right direction. A mission statement does just this. At the Chamber, we have grown from a small umbrella stand to a state-of-the-art facility, and have capitalized on the Art Deco Renaissance, Rat Pack days and celebrity flockings. But throughout all the glamour, the our mission statement calls us back to business.
To enjoy the art, culture, environment, social causes and general beauty of our environment, we must be economically viable. I go back to my mantra, “ a rising tide lifts all boats” – it’s not about just a few select companies, everyone should be working together to assist each other, in all fields, to achieve a well-rounded and sustainable city.
As members, we should be remembering just that. Help all your fellow members and businessmen, even if they don’t immediately seem connected with your industry. Business is more intertwined than first meets eye both economically and socially and what might not initially seem to benefit you directly at first could very well lead to long-term success in terms of your company and/or the growth and offerings of the neighborhood in which you also live and play. Most importantly, our mission statement reminds us to use our business savvy for good: to ensure that our efforts are minding the entire community, and that the results trickle down to all Miami Beach’s personal and professional residents.
We thank our members as the driving force behind the Chamber’s many mission accomplishments. Now, take a moment to reflect on your own business….What is your mission statement?
At your service,
Jason Loeb
Chairman.
Miami Beach Education Foundation: Nominees 2012
May 14th
In business, community and personal relations, education is the binding element that allows for growth in each these sectors of life. What’s so neat about education is that it’s a never-ending process, no matter how much knowledge you obtain. Even more important are the relationships you develop with your teachers along the way. It’s more than learning just facts, but experiencing life lessons that inspire you. Education is an incredible process that every student should have ready access to and that every teacher should be able to readily impart.
In an effort to jumpstart quality learning for our children, the Miami Beach Chamber Education Foundation was created to support our public education system. As a community, we should be building up to our schools, not cutting their resources. Part of this process includes highlighting the individuals within who excel in nurturing our youth. April 27th marks our the presentation of the annual Elayne Weisburg Excellence in Education Award. One teacher from Miami Beach Senior High School, as well as from each of its feeder schools – Treasure Island Elementary School, North Beach Elementary School, Ruth K. Broad K-8 Center, Nautilus Middle School, South PointeElementary School, Fienberg Fisher K-8 Center and Biscayne Elementary School – has been nominated for his/her outstanding work. I’m pleased to announce that this year’s nominees are:
Jacqueline H. Adler, Biscayne Elementary School
Olga Bichachi, Treasure Island Elementary School
Gussie Bowen, Miami Beach Senior High
Dorothy Brochey, Nautilus Middle School
Benjamin E. Groff, South Pointe Elementary School
Onil F. Rodriguez, Ruth K. Board Bay Harbor K-8 Center
Anat Schwartzbaum, North Beach Elementary School
On behalf of the Chamber, I extend congratulations and heartfelt appreciation to our nominees.
The winner will be announced at the April 27 luncheon hosted at the Palms Hotel & Spa. Speaking from my personal experience last year, it will be incredibly difficult for our panel of judges. We would be proud and honored to have any of these educators teach our child, or even ourselves for that matter. Should you like to support these teachers on their special day, please visit www.miamibeachchamber.com/cm_Events.php for registration details.
At your service,
Jason Loeb
Chairman
Chamber Team working their magic for the City of Miami Beach
May 7th
And they say New York City never sleeps… We’ve touted a lot of ongoing successes, yet things continue to bustle here at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce. We have our annual gala around the corner and dozens of events are on the books. Despite Miami’s nickname, all these great happenings aren’t getting done via magic – the secret weapon is our incredible Chamber staff. Indeed, we have great leadership guiding the unprecedented growth of this organization, but our staff is the backbone in bringing the Chamber mission to life. Specifically, I’d like to recognize the following individuals for their commitment and hard work:
* Jerry Libbin, President & CEO
* Ana Cecilia Velasco, Chief Operating Officer
* Wendy Unger, Acting Director of Membership Relations
* Shirley Inoni, Director of Finance
* Chantal Gloor, Operations Coordinator
* Valarie Rasken, Director Marketing & Communications
* Anaely Delgado, Communications Associate
* Lisa Ricci, Membership Relations Associate
* Daniel Santamaria, Membership Relations Associate
* Susana Penaranda, Receptionist
* Dona Pugliese Zemo, Director of Visit Miami Beach
* Monique Beaudet, Assistant Director of Visit Miami Beach
Meet our Chamber Team. Click Here.
These 12 individuals are accomplishing what many large corporations can only aspire to do. They’ve work diligently behind-the-scenes and it’s important that their contributions are brought to the forefront. As many of you have personally attested, they take great care of our members, believe in our visions and are passionate when executing the supporting strategies and tactics. On behalf of the Chamber membership, thank you for all that you do. You represent the power of teamwork and have left an impacting footprint in the development of Miami Beach.
At your service,
Jason Loeb, Sudsies
Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Spring time is here, that means cleaning is near
Mar 29th
Spring is officially underway. But with those May flowers comes the dreaded Spring cleaning. Yes, it’s that time to once again get our homes back in order. Everyone knows I’m certainly a fan of a cleanliness, but I’m thinking that even our companies could benefit from a little metaphorical Spring tidying as well.
Here are some tips:
• Stay on trend. It’s out with the old and in with the new. Like the fashions in our closets, business trends change rapidly. What has worked for you over the years might not anymore, even if it’s comfortable. To remain competitive, you must always be on your toes and anticipate new trends, not just follow them. It’s a fine balance – an unwavering approach can stagnate business, while adapting too many changes can make your company appear wish-washy, so incorporate only those trends that align with your core vision and are relevant for your customers.
• Dust off old gems. Sometimes logistics command our attention, forcing the big picture to fall by the wayside. As leaders, it’s easy to get caught up in the web of tasks, but we really need to use our talents as visionaries. Entrust the operations to a solid manager, so you can tend to those great business ideas that got put on the backburner and make them a reality. • De-clutter. Sure, an ornate design can be pretty, but it can also be distracting. Review your processes and identify and any repetitive or ineffective steps. Simplifying things not only makes things clearer for your employees, but is also likely to lead to time- and cost-efficiencies.
• Polish Up. Now that you have a solid infrastructure in place, refine your ideas. How can you improve upon them and/or expand to enhance the customer experience and your brand? Put together, it can be a daunting undertaking, but is well worth the organized structure, clear head and fresh perspective you and your business will
enjoy once complete. Need some guidance? We at the Chamber are happy to roll up our sleeves and help via advice from our broad leadership and membership base on how to make your company sparkle. Now, let’s get scrubbing!
At your service,
Jason Loeb, Sudsies
Chairman, Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce.
