You hear it constantly, that the number one thing to grow your business or succeed at work is to build and maintain your network. Yet so many roll their eyes and groan when they hear the word. Why is networking so hated? I suspect that if you have attended an event where everyone runs around […]
As we come to the end of the year, it can be either smooth sailing or the craziest time of year depending on the type of business you’re in. No matter what your industry is though, you will have to dot your i’s and cross your t’s and tie up the loose ends as we […]
The idea of celebrating the little wins, accomplishments and short-term goals is discussed frequently. But what about the big wins? The long-term goals can seem awfully anti-climatic when they are achieved and unless you have something in place to celebrate them, can make you not want to work so hard next time. When we reach […]
As we’re getting closer to the launch of the SS17 Collection, I thought I’d share a bit about what goes into designing each of these quarterly releases at Manic Trout. In the months leading up to a new collection, I begin by gathering images and notes, often scribbled on scraps of paper, and pinning them […]
For those of you who don’t already know, I (Sierra), make all of the jewelry here at Manic Trout in my Austin studio. Over the years, I have brought in various artisans to do piece work for me, but I always make to sure to finish each piece as a way to ensure the high […]
Having an online business for more than decade has been a constant exercise in learning and adjusting to new technology. I’m usually pretty quick to accept and adapt, with of course a few exceptions (SnapChat). More often than not, the advancements improve things and I get used to them so fast that I never look […]
Friday was an exciting day, I was invited to be a guest on studio 512, a lifestyle show here in Austin on KXAN (NBC) hosted by Amanda Tatom. It was for an episode of favorite things, and my jewelry was Amanda’s favorite things, so I thought the best thing to do was to debut the FW14 Collection […]
This is a pretty specific topic, but I am often asked how I keep track of orders from all of the places I sell online, so I figured it was worth a post. Really, this method can be used to sort any type of office papers so it might actually be helpful to many of […]
Okay, I am a big fan of bingo! If you ask any of my friends they’ll tell you just how much I love the game. I think it’s exciting and thrilling but doesn’t have the pressure ordinary gambling does. My grandparents always used to play bingo and I guess that’s why I love it. I […]
I have at different times in the life of Manic Trout, hired all sorts of people to help grow the business grow. From holiday help to assistants to interns to publicists, I have delegated on many levels. When I still was in the day job phase, a great deal of help was necessary as my […]
