Want a Promotion? Find a Mentor…or Become One!

find a mentor
According to an internal HR study done by Sun Microsystems, their employees who were also mentees were 5 times more likely to be promoted. Mentors, on the other hand, were six times more likely to be promoted. It’s a win-win situation, with everyone benefiting from experience, outside perspective and problem-solving.

Even if you work for a small business – or yourself! – it makes sense to look to a mentor for their advice, especially if you can find one that’s “been there.” Keep reading for some tips on how to find a mentor, what to look for in a mentor, and a couple of dos and don’ts when reaching out!

Read More

Get the Samsung Galaxy S5 at Staples, and check out their trade-in offer

Looking to get Samsung’s latest smartphone, the Galaxy S5, but also looking for a great deal? Head on over to your closest Staples or start online and try trading in your old phone! The Galaxy S5 is just $199 with a 2-year contract at Staples, but you can save more with a trade-in.

The details: Customers who pick up a Galaxy S5 or even last year’s Galaxy S4 can receive a minimum of $50 back, a maximum of $300, by simply trading in an eligible used phone. In addition, Staples rewards members receive 5% back automatically, AND customers who check their mobile upgrade eligibility in one of Staples’ 1,000 mobile phone store locations will receive a $5 coupon.

To get started Staple’s trade in offer, hit this link

Disclosure of Material Connection: Hey readers, this is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

4 Ways Video Conferencing Can Deliver Value to Your Business

spreecast video mario

I believe that video can have a powerful effect on how we digest information and relate to one another. I got my start in media on radio, eventually hosting my own daily tech talk show on SiriusXM. But it’s undeniable that in our culture especially, video platforms like TV, film, and even YouTube can be much more engaging and exciting for audiences. Being able to actually show people tech products and apps on shows like NBC’s TODAY show means I’m able to bring my message to audiences in a much more accessible way.

On top of being a media figure, I also run my own company. Over the years I’ve put together an amazing team, but geographically they’re spread out all over the country! In order to get it all done, we take advantage of tools to work together, including cloud appsproject management software, email, and conference calls.

But when we need to take it to the next level, to really connect with each other face-to-face, we turn to video conferencing. Just like TV has huge benefits compared to radio, I think video conferencing with my team has huge benefits! Here’s why:

Keep reading this post at AT&T’s Networking Exchange Blog ->

Why I’m excited about Mailbox for Mac

It goes without saying that time management is one of the biggest problems facing entrepreneurs, which is why I’m always excited about new apps that save you time. With a limited number of hours in the day to pursue your dream career, especially if you’re still working that 9-5, even a few minutes here and there can make a big difference.

I’m excited for the upcoming release of Dropbox’s Mailbox app for Mac, which promises to make it even easier to quickly sort through your Mailbox with new features to ensure you spend even less time stuck in your inbox.

Read More

What’s the appropriate age for children to join social media networks?

For decades, parents have attempted to make a point about peer pressure to their children with this tired old phrase: “If all of your friends jumped off a bridge, would you do it?”. It’s a way to trying to help kids understand that while peer pressure can sometimes be good (like when friends pressure your child to try out for the basketball team), they need to think critically when peer pressure is threatening to lead them astray (like jumping off a bridge).

Today, I propose that we update the phrase for the 21st century, and ask our kids something new!

Read More

In 2 easy steps, make lists and identify your passion for business!

I won’t try to hide it: I love making lists. I find that getting out a sheet of paper and actually writing things down is a great way to think through business issues I’m stuck with or to generate ideas when sitting in front of a computer isn’t doing it for me.

Nothing makes me happier than seeing entrepreneurs get their start and launching their own businesses, but it’s important that they start with the right ideas and that their passions line up with their business so they can be successful even when the money isn’t flowing in.

Today I’m going to teach you two awesome ways to use lists to help you kick off your business plans and get to work starting your own company!

Read More

Apps to help you plan your wedding! (Katie Couric)

mario armstrong weddings katie couricKatie Couric had me on her show yesterday to show off the 5 best apps to help your plan your wedding! From planning the seating arrangement, sending cards and even saving some money, I’ve got apps to help you manage it all, quickly and easily. Plus, I get to show off some of my favorite sneakers :)

Check out the segment embedded above, or keep reading to see all the apps I mentioned in the segment.

Read More

Can you believe it’s wedding season already? Upcoming Katie Couric appearance

Mario_Katie

On Tuesday, April 22nd, I’ll be appearing on Katie to show off some great apps and websites to help you with every aspect of putting together your wedding. I’ve found a great service that mails all of your wedding stationery for you, a website to help you with seating at your reception, a service that helps you create your own wedding website and app, and even a site to help you get a deep discount on the dress or wedding gifts.

Use the Katie Couric Station Finder to figure out when Katie airs in your market, and then be sure to set your DVR or tune in on Tuesday!