The last two days I auditioned for “Don’t Forget the Lyrics”. I am an avid singing fan and know lots of songs, so I thought, “Why not?”. I didn’t get the final nod, but I had fun pushing on my comfort zone, something I believe everyone should do regularly.

What I brought back from the experience, though, is how important it is to be make a deep, lasting impression quickly. The first audition was literally 2 minutes or less long. You filled out your paperwork and then had to sing for and speak to a judge. The second call back was maybe 5 minutes long, but not much more. No one’s audition was much longer, even the ones who made it through. You had to be on from the first second you were walking up.

You had to be exactly what they were looking for, too. The TV show was focused on a very specific thing. Although at first glance this might have seemed like a singing audition, what they really wanted were engaging and compelling people who knew lyrics (we had to take a long test to show we knew lyrics). They wanted people who were enthusiastic and charismatic (they filmed our performance to confirm our energy level on camera). They wanted an interesting, unique and appealing backstory (I filled out an 11 page application). Sure, they preferred that you sing pretty good, but that was definitely not the primary focus. It was not actually a singing audition.

The same process happens for your potential clients when they are looking for you. So, what’s your first 2 minute impression? How well do you pass the tests that customers give you? How aware are you of the actual result people are searching for rather than what it might appear they should want? How do you communicate your unique and compelling selling offer? Do people remember you after a short meeting? Are you enthusiastic about your brand?

These questions are important to answer. Because, if you are the one chosen, it could lead to big money. And fun. And a brighter future! So, today, give some thought to your audition. Check your look, be ready to be tested, and shine! Show the people who you are and what you can offer them. It will pay off.

Together, we are stronger.
Vicki Flaugher, the original SmartWoman

P.S. Don’t forget to sign up for the free teleseminar on June 25th, with Lynn Pierce, about turning your passion into cash.

Hear SmartWoman sing!
CLICK ON THE “RATE THIS PERFORMACE LINK” BELOW TO HEAR MY SONG:

As a lifelong singing fantatic, the advent of karaoke was a dream come true for me. I simply love it. I’ve even been a KJ (karaoke host) so that should give you some perspective. It’s just so much fun!

One of the reasons why I enjoy karaoke so much, beyond the fun of singing, is you get to see into the heart of people. You witness a side of their personality that doesn’t always have a chance to show up in day to day living, especially the business side of their life. It’s a rare glimpse into their souls and it’s very intimate.

It takes courage to stand up in front of people and sing your heart out. And, make no mistake–the most audience beloved singers are not the ones that are perfect singers. It’s the ones that mean it, that sing their heart out with all they’ve got. People crave authenticity and like to feel they can relate to you.

I tend to have a bit of stage fright in front of groups, so karaoke gives me the chance to practice my performance muscles, to put myself out there and get over it. Much like when you are giving a sales presentation or a keynote address, you are in the spotlight with all eyes and ears on you. Having the skill, the strength of spirit to allow that level of energy to flow through you and out of you is a valuable thing.

Don’t forget the fun and comraderie! Add a small touch of imbibing and you have a full blown confidence party, right?  I’m not suggesting that you have to be drunk to let go (I don’t), but taking baby steps to comfort yourself and nudge yourself into doing something new can change your entire perspective. Sip a margarita a bit (or meditate or go to one of those fire walking classes) if you need to, but jump in. Initiative always gets rewarded.

It’s easy to see how this relates to your business, isn’t it? Showing your authentic self, letting your guard down so people can relate to you, courage, initiative, fun, confidence, feeling comfortable in the spotlight…it all adds up to a better you as a woman entrepreneur.

So, grab some girlfriends and go check out your local karaoke scene. If you are just so shy you can’t imagine doing it in pubic, try going to www.singshot.com and singing a song or two there. Record them and share them with the online community. Even that can be a challenge so just do it.

To show I mean what I say, I recorded a song for you. It’s The Rose, made popular by Bette Midler. My singing isn’t perfect and I am nervous to share it with you, but I want to show you that I take my own advice. Go and have a listen then post your songs here. When you have a supportive community like this one, take advantage of it and do the scary things. It’s worth it.

Together, we are stronger!
Vicki Flaugher

Hear SmartWoman sing!
CLICK ON THE “RATE THIS PERFORMACE LINK” BELOW TO HEAR MY SONG: