A two-part Working Solo Minute today. First, you're invited to take part in a Small Business Survey that will take about 7 minutes of your time, and you'll get a chance to win one of 24 prizes, including a $500 gift certificate to Amazon.com or a new iPod. Open to small business owners in the USA, 18 years or older. Details here, or click on the ad in the right column. This project has been months in the making, and I'm pleased to give soloists a chance to start the New Year off with some fun rewards. If you blog or publish a newsletter, please spread the word. Thanks, and good luck to everyone!

The other topic to address today is inspired by the writings of the late Thomas J. Leonard, particularly his book, The Portable Coach. In it, Leonard encourages entrepreneurs to add value to what they offer customers, not as a way to increase profits or "play the angles" with someone, but from the joy it brings you.

Leonard writes that added value often "feels more like a hook or a setup, not a gift." Customers can sense it, and "it puts people on the lookout so that they're automatically less receptive to the good points of your service, your product, or yourself."

Instead, ask yourself: What can I add to my product or service because it delights me? This shifts the focus from selling and moves it toward the core of what brings you satisfaction. Your enthusiasm and authenticity will become a strong magnet for attracting customers to your business.

-- Terri Lonier
Founder, WorkingSolo.com

P.S. Join me in celebrating the newest work-at-home executive, President Barack Obama. His home office may be a little classier than ours, but he still enjoys a 60-second commute.