The Negotiation Process Part 1: Jenny Fly Talks with Itzel Yagual About Her Career, Business Relationships And Her Thoughts On Negotiations

Building relationships, setting aside differences, understanding perceptions and working toward mutual agreements are not only some of the vital steps in the process of negotiations but also the steps in building a thriving two party relationship. Whether you are an artist negotiating the terms of a contract, an employee unhappy with your employer's agreement, or someone questioning insurance policies for you and your family, negotiations are a very important part of our everyday lives. Without negotiations, as sources suggest, humans would not be able to successfully demand change for their concerns nor defend themselves from others who are simply trying to take advantage.

Dina LaPolt, an entertainment lawyer based in Los Angeles, California, couldn't have said it better in that the entertainment industry is "based on relationships" and when "one has to refer back to the agreement the relationship is in the dumper." Others criticize this view and believe that placing effort solely in business relationships is foolish and that with this thinking, one is bound to playing the puppet in another person's show. Is it safe to say that relationships play a huge role on the outcome of negotiations? Are we foolish if we believe that relationships play a role in negotiations? Is the negotiation process similar or more challenging in a specific field? How does one deal with difficult people in negotiations? What are the key ingredients to being a good negotiator? Are there specific things each party must understand and research before entering a negotiation? 


In this 2 part series, I got an inside look at what several professionals thought about negotiations, how they got involved in their careers, how they work with difficult people and the steps they use to make negotiations effective. 

In part 1 of negotiations, I sat down with Jenny Fly, who works at H&M Communications, a Hispanic marketing agency to talk about her career, her thoughts on the negotiation process and how to work toward a mutual benefit in a work environment. At H&M Communications, Jenny "works for the promotions team" which "reaches out to the media and retail outlets to help spread the word" on the company's films. The company she works for is hired by "Movie Studios to promote films through media outlets." In addition to this, H&M Communications also has "a publicity team that deals directly with television, actors, actresses" and "other clients." 


Ms. Fly always had an interest for the entertainment and media fields. In high school, she participated in a radio and television program, which motivated her to pursue a degree in entertainment. Since she "enjoyed it" so much, during college, she got a job working in a radio show on the promotions team. After that she "worked her way up to being an on-air personality." Later she adopted her current role in marketing and promotions with H&M Communications, a Hispanic marketing agency. 

Jenny loves "the perks" she obtains in this field, such as access to the "premieres, the swag and much more." She is fascinated with every aspect of her job and even though the job requires "long hours," to her it's simply, "not a big deal."


Despite the level of competition and lack of trust one can encounter in the entertainment industry, research suggests that negotiations can still be effective as long as both parties invent options for mutual gain, address perceptions, value each others input and more importantly are willing to work on building a strong and professional relationship. Jenny understands the importance of building relationships in business and takes her clients' input seriously when she negotiates with media outlets "in screening ticket giveaways and other types of promotions, to promote the company's films."

When dealing with difficult people, Jenny ensures that the process is easy for the company's promoters as well as the clients. To that effect, she also makes sure that the parties are comfortable and able to communicate their concerns. In this way, she says, "you keep the clients happy." To further develop solutions for mutual gain, Jenny believes that parties involved in negotiations, need to conduct research prior negotiating, adhere to industry standards, know what types of products or services the other party is interested in and "have a great plan" to exercise. Having a plan of execution will ensure that in a negotiation "the promotions can be handled correctly." Jenny agrees that communication is the key to a successful negotiation and that without it there is  no room for both parties to neither reach an understanding nor can the parties agree to a common ground. 


In conclusion, she feels that negotiators must have "patience, be prepared and have a back up plan," to deal with manipulative ploys, deception and dirty tactics which can be the other party's approach in any given negotiation. Lastly, she says that in order to have a lasting business relationship, both parties need to be willing to "compromise" so that they can "reach an agreement" that is suited not for one but for both parties.



Research highlights that preparing for negotiations plays an important role to having an effective and successful negotiation. Jenny feels strongly in that before entering negotiations both parties need to be prepared for all types of questioning, keep in mind that working "toward a mutual benefit" is the goal, and that negotiators should use their knowledge as "leverage" to place a halt to dirty tactics when they occur. Her wonderful talent and the value she places on relationships are some of the factors that lead Jenny to success, time after time. Her services have been exceptional and no clients have walked away unsatisfied because to Jenny business relationships are vital. 


Seeking gains in any career field is rarely possible when an individual has not developed a relationship with their respective party. The object of a negotiation is not to play a game nor to simply obtain a gain; a negotiation is an avenue, an outlet to develop a connection that which grows into a relationship where neither party will need or have necessity to refer to the fine-print in their contracts. 


To connect with Jenny Fly or to learn more about her, please visit the following places online.

Twitter: @JennyFly 

Website: jennyflymusic.tumblr.com/


Tune in for the next blog post, where you'll get a close look at an entrepreneur that is successful not only in his career but also in building thriving business relationships.

Sources:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wg8TJcBbQqM


http://www.dalecarnegiewayfla.com/2011/05/10/why-relationships-are-important-to-your-business/


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jYJmtPBsfY


http://www.negotiations.com/articles/negotiator-traits/


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Njcw93I_RA8


http://humanresources.about.com/b/2011/01/09/deal-difficult-people.htm


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgnAY_eXYbI


http://video.foxsmallbusinesscenter.com/v/968496825001/the-importance-of-relationships-in-building-a-business/

Ana "Rokafella" Garcia talks with Itzel Yagual on breakdancing, hip-hop and the issues women face in a male dominated industry

Looking at Nicki Minaj's music video, "Super Bass," some would claim the video highlights the fact that in today's society women are able to express their sexuality freely, even if it's showing a little cleavage, talking about their sexual desires or engaging in an exotic dance move, yet others, would argue that the sexuality displayed in this music video is simply a typical quality of what roles are more acceptable for women, to play in hip-hop culture. There is certainly no question in Nicki Minaj's undeniable talent nor in the fact that in the music industry "sex sells" but, there are underlying questions as to what roles women are more likely play and have success in hip-hop culture. Are women easily accepted in the hip-hop culture? Are women in hip-hop having more success in roles that defy the common female stereotypes or are they seeing success in embracing the female social norms of the genre? Where do women fit in hip-hop culture and how can they become successful in a genre that often places them in negative and limited categories? 

Who is Ana "Rokafella" Garcia?

Despite the challenges women often face in the hip hop culture, there are several successful women who have defied the social tags and negative connotations that come into play when having a career in hip-hop. One of these remarkable women, is Ana "Rokafella" Garcia, a highly regarded, well known break-dancer and artist. Rokafella is not only educating youth on the importance of preserving and learning their personal histories but also teaches them the importance of preserving the culture of breakdancing, by empowering young women who are striving to become B-girls at her dance studio and by creating films such as "all the ladies say," which touches on the lives of six iconic female street dancers.





Ana"Rokafella" Garcia: history, experiences as a woman in the hip-hop genre and present day 

In a recent interview with the multi-talented Rokafella, who has been in the hip-hop scene for many years, she reveals her experiences and thoughts on hip hop culture, breakdancing culture and the common issues that women face in the music industry. The hip-hop dancer, choreographer, filmmaker and band member of La Roka Soul says that women had "less difficulties back in the day because the culture was organic and free-spirited" whereas today, "there are so many rules in the hip-hop game,” especially if you are a woman. 


Rokafella became passionate about dancing during the1980's in Spanish Harlem where she says, "making a name for myself took its own natural course" and there were "no rules and anyone could just watch it take place." Rokafella's passion for dancing and music began when she was very young. She grew up watching dancers on the streets and participated in talent shows and community events. She first learned about breakdancing when she was 11 and then took her skills to the next level at age 23, where she began performing as a breakdancer, B-girl. Ana says that she was inspired by breakdancing because she liked "the aggressions in the movement, how strong you can become and the attention you receive as a break-dancer." Rokafella believes, “breakdancing was what put hip-hop on the map," and that it is an important element of hip-hop such as poetry, rhyming, and disc jockeying. 

Currently, she and her husband, Gabriel "Kwikstep" Dionisio, a well known B boy, are running Full Circle Productions, a hip-hop, dance and theater company where they strive to “preserve the breakdancing culture and to train the new hip hop heads into theatre, community zone, spoken word, song, starting a crew and dance." Rokafella continues to perform as a B-girl and as a singer in her band La Roka Soul. Ana loves her job because to her "play is work."


Rokafella on hip-hop: females’ struggles and what females need in order to succeed 

Rokafella is very proud of her success but explains that to be a successful B-girl, one must understand that, dancing "takes commitment, discipline and that as a female you must bring something unique to the table." She adds that "you, must have potential in unlocking it," otherwise, "it is treacherous if you do not have a talent which poses a challenge for women." Rokafella feels that women are at a disadvantage when it comes to pursuing careers in the music industry because they are often taught on the basis of social norms. She says parents often teach little girls "to play with dolls whereas boys are being taught how to defend themselves and play with toy trucks." She also feels that the genre has always been "very difficult for women" and that women coming into the entertainment business must have "skills to override or navigate" the social norms of the music industry. She says that it is not uncommon to hear “women do sexual favors to get ahead" in the industry and regardless of whether its true or not, this is a negative tag that women will have to deal with and or continue to defy in hip-hop culture. 

The women that do succeed in the industry she says, posses two things "an undeniable talent and a good network," whereas those that do not, just simply “can’t survive." At Full Circle, Rokafella mentors and teaches young women the importance of "building their skills through time" and ensures that each youth understands that, "honing your craft" does not happen overnight. She wants her students to succeed and underlines that in this industry, they need to be "aware of who is out there performing, what is the trend, who are the leading Dj's and B boys/B girls." 

Rokafella's advice to women pursuing careers in hip-hop


When asked what advice she would give to young women pursuing careers in the hip-hop genre, Rokafella recommends that women need to "know the history of the genre, know your cultural history and know the techniques so that you can be at a level where you can make demands and start calling shots." She underlines that young women need to also "understand that they must become followers before they can be leaders." As far as the future for hip-hop and whether women will continue to struggle in being misrepresented with a negative tag, she believes that the culture will continue to "evolve" and that women will have to continue to work hard in making a positive name for themselves when they enter the "hierarchy of the entertainment business," to become a professional. 

Rokafella's future and her predictions on hip-hop culture and breakdancing

In the next ten years, Rokafella believes she will be "teaching a course on dance at a university," maybe having her own show and have "published two books." She says that she could also see herself reaching out more to communities, possibly directing plays and doing a web series.

As far as the future for b-girlying and breakdancing, Rokafella believes that youth will continue to be attracted to it because there is passion for the dance and others see it as "trendy, fun and as a distraction that keeps them from joining gangs." She also predicts that there will be “some connection or solidarity to hip-hop."

When it comes to hip-hop, Rokafella pictures that hip-hop will have "institutions and universities" where leaders who have lived the hip-hop culture and seen the genre grow from humble beginnings versus those that have learned the genre through teachings, "will educate students about hip-hop," its impact and continue to inspire future generations on what hip-hop is about, its elements and how to preserve the culture.

Regardless of her future endeavors, it will be no surprise that this lady will continue to be successful for many years to come. What the future holds for women in the hip-hop genre is unsure but it is hoped that many will recognize the potential that women have to offer in the genre and value what women bring and how they contribute to the hip-hop culture and genre without placement of a negative label.

During the summer, Ana "Rokafella" Garcia will be teaching hip-hop dance classes from June 20-24, 2011, at Queens College. Her film, "All the ladies say," will also be showcased on June 3, 2011. 


To learn more about Ana "Rokafella" Garcia and her work, please view the following links: 

http://www.facebook.com/l/5786crOzB293NfRHN9uabM82Gvw/www.alltheladiessay.com
http://www.facebook.com/l/5786cet8AHE2bVNRx_JLtWFShCw/www.fullcirclesoul.com

Sources: 

http://youtu.be/4JipHEz53sU 


http://youtu.be/HakbNahc4t8


http://youtu.be/FtyHa_oUh7M


http://youtu.be/r2q5zlgkKas


http://youtu.be/zXp1WGQL9K4


http://www.theroot.com/views/hip-hop-feminism?page=0,1

http://www.blackenterprise.com/2011/04/04/hip-hop-business-

maven-mona-scott-young-talks-running-

the-show/

http://www.fullcirclesoul.com/about.php

http://alltheladiessay.com/blog/

Will Reggeaton Thrive In Mainstream American Culture Or Only In Latino Communities?

Although the reggeaton music genre has had a strong and long-lasting presence in Central America, Europe and Asia, artists and entertainers in the genre have found it difficult in maintaining and in finding a lucrative niche market in the United States. Sources say that reggeaton is highly recognized online via social networks, reggeaton music websites, reggeaton artist websites and reggaton live web radio. Reports also show that the majority of reggeaton enthusiasts are of Latino descent and that these listeners reside in Central America or in the United States.


What is reggeaton? 

 
Reports suggest that reggaeton is  a blend of Jamaican sounds reggae and dancehall combined with Latin sounds such as bomba, plena, merengue, bachata, hip hop and electronica. Reggeaton, is known and referred to as plena, musica del underground (underground music) and musica urbana (urban music). Many stories have circulated the airwaves and no agreements have been made on who created the genre or where the movement began. Some sources believe that the genre dates back to the early 1980's, and originated when a Panamanian producer named Michael Ellis introduced the artist El General. Other sources suggest that the movement began in Puerto Rico in the early1990's with several founding fathers who created and flourished the movement. Today, the birth of the genre is still hotly debated.

Reggeaton making its way into American culture

Although not highly televised in mainstream American culture, the genre is thriving in Spanish music television shows, through online social networks and offline Latino communities. Reggeaton maybe popular through these avenues but much work is still needed to create a firm stance for the reggeaton culture and music to be a huge hit in American mainstream music culture.

Reggeaton artists Don Omar and Tego Calderon are finding ways that supercharge not only their careers but also raises awareness to the reggeaton movement, their music, and creates new career opportunities within the American mainstream music business and culture. Most recently, Don Omar and Tego Calderon played lucrative roles in movies Fast and the Furious 4 and Fast and the Furious 5. Surely enough, sources say that movie goers not only get to see these artists in action but also get a taste of their music throughout the movies. These roles will certainly, underline the artists' acting abilities but the question of whether it will highlight their reggeaton stardom and create a lasting impression of reggeaton music in the American music arena, time will only tell. 



Similar to Tego Calderon and Don Omar are Wisin and Yandel, who are gaining popularity and success in marketing their music from doing collaborations with American hip hop artists. Hip hop artists 50 cent, Akon and T-Pain, have worked with the dynamic duo, Wisin and Yandel creating songs that blend hip hop style, reggeaton beats, rap style and spanish lyrics. Aside from their success in Latin America, Wisin and Yandel's collaborated songs have brought attention to the genre as well as their artistry in America. 



In addition to that duo, is the well known, Daddy Yankee. Highly regarded in Puerto Rico for his music alongside artists like Don Omar, Daddy Yankee was one of the first to explode his reggeaton artistry through collaborations including artists Fergie, Snoop Dogg and others outside of the reggeaton genre. 


The future for Reggeaton music and reggeaton movement

What does the future hold for reggeaton? Will new up-incoming reggeaton artists use other career opportunities to make their music widely known in American culture? Will there be opportunities for reggeaton as a brand to hold its own category or will it continue to be a hit only in pockets of Latino online and offline communities and or reaggeaton enthusiasts? Sources suggest that the reggeaton movement is growing steadily within American culture and that in the years to come, reggeaton will be widely known. As far as how the music will be introduced whether directly or indirectly it is yet to be known. So far, the indirect method of introducing the reggeaton artist and genre has been proven to be a successful method, for some artists. Collaborations and acting roles are certainly honing in on the reggeaton hype and it is hoped that support for the movement will grow and continue to thrive strongly and effectively in America.


Sources:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zc1WIUP3IkM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUKb61mElCI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqTaMANhYiQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVJCJ5-Ljwo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OC8SbAID8mA

http://www.dubandreggae.com/reggaeton

http://www.mketv.com/wow/who-started-reggaeton-music

http://www.sitetrail.com/musicaurbana.net

http://www.rapbasement.com/hip-hop/genres/reggaeton.html

Captivating An Audience Is More Than Being Charismatic

How do entertainers and other professionals woo their audiences? Are some people born with the ability to perform? Why are some people better at public speaking than others? 

Getting someone's attention during a speech, a performance or an interview takes more than having charisma. There are people today who are great speakers and some who wish to have the ability to connect with an audience. After viewing "es el momento,"(this is the moment) a town hall meeting with president Barrack Obama and A.J. Jacob's web video "year of living biblically," one finds that public speaking requires confidence, preparation, trying new things, having a sense of humor, and being skilled in a trade. Regardless of issue or subject in highlight, A.J. Jacobs and President Obama are well prepared and know how to connect, respond and share ideas with their audiences. 

A.J. Jacobs is not only an author, but also a philanthropist, prankster and a journalist. In his web video "living biblically," Mr. Jacobs discusses how he adopted the bible and how the bible became his way of life for several weeks. With light humor and showing pictures of his lifestyle changes, Jacob gave detailed information to the audience of how he grew a long beard, changed his attire and his beliefs to "live biblically." The audience seemed amused and intrigued with Mr. Jacob's experiment. Mr. Jacobs steps out of his cultural customs and lifestyle, to adopt different roles so that he has a better understanding of a culture, way of life or concept. 

The "es el momento" was a televised town hall meeting with president Obama, to discuss education, immigration and how the issues affect the Latino community. Although the program was televised in the Spanish language on Univision (Spanish television channel), the president received English translation via an earpiece he wore during the meeting. The president answered a variety of questions ranging from college education, school bullying to parent education. He remained calm, stood his ground and even shared his own personal experience, of how he was bullied as a child.  

In both cases, A.J. Jacobs and president Obama are confident and are able to address topics that may not be within their cultural context and or relevant to their personal experiences. They both are open-minded, share their own experiences, and captivate audiences by using humor and address topics in a respectful manner.

Regardless of the profession, one should keep in mind that, being confident, sharing personal experiences and discussing issues outside of personal context is a great way to connect with a live audience. 

Go ahead, it is never too late to share your moment and be in the spotlight! What are you waiting for? 

Sources: 

A.J. Jacobs' Year of Living Biblically 
http://www.ted.com/talks/a_j_jacobs_year_of_living_biblically.html 

Es el momento: A town hall meeting with president Obama 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9xcB6ZnGcY

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA): Review of the LA Chapter Website

Students and professionals living in the Los Angeles area pursuing a career in public relations, can obtain the latest information and resources on PRSA-LA (Public Relations Society of America Los Angeles chapter) website. Sources say that the Los Angeles Public Relations Society of America is one of the largest and prestigious associations for public relations professionals. PRSA connects students, mid-career professionals, and or seasoned veterans to the latest communication strategies and skills in public relations. Members can take full advantage of the PRSA services versus non-members. Non-members can only access event information, view PRSA-LA news, access membership information and learn about programs. Members can access not only PR news but can receive discounts on upcoming events, learn about sponsorships, apply to committees, access resources, attend professional development seminars, apply to grants, enter local and national award programs, create a member profile and access jobs and internships. Whether you are a mid-career professional, or someone trying to revamp your PR skills and tactics, the PRSA-LA website does more than provide resources, it lays out the tools necessary for professional development.

Grants and award programs

Members can receive recognition in a variety of ways. The Los Angeles PRSA's award programs acknowledge public relations professionals and PR businesses that have been superior in providing excellent products and services. The annual PRism awards program honors outstanding programs and materials that are created by public relations professionals. The winners of the PRism awards are honored every year during October, at the Prism award show and banquet. On a national level, PR professionals and organizations can obtain recognition by achieving the PRSA silver anvil award or the bronze anvil award. The silver anvil acknowledges organizations that have addressed a contemporary issue with creativity and professionalism. The bronze anvil recognizes individuals for their uniqueness in service components and outstanding use of PR tactics. PR professional of the year, PR team of the year, outstanding citizen and Joseph Roos community service are part of the annual special awards. Non-profit organizations seeking to minimize their costs in public relations activities can apply for a chance at winning the annual Don Perkins grant. The winning organization receives 10,000 dollars.

PR certification for young professionals

Young professionals can also obtain recognition and receive certification. The LMU extension gives young PR professionals an opportunity to obtain a public relations certificate by completing a 12-week, high-speed course taught by a highly respected, former Los Angeles journalist.

Exposure and other benefits through sponsorships


Businesses and professionals can market their business by doing sponsorships. Members with 500 dollars or more in sponsorships are able to market their business through website advertisements, receive recognition during events and receive tickets to annual events.

Conclusion

The PRSA Los Angeles is a great source because it provides current news and information on public relations; members can market their business as well as their professional profile by attending PRSA events, participating in seminars and or entering the annual award programs. Aside from the resources one can obtain, the website is great place to network, learn about other PR companies and apply to internships and jobs that are not visible to non-members and the public. Overall, a great website that provides tools that enhance PR skills, encourages professional development, unites PR professionals and creates marketing opportunities for businesses.


Sources:

Public Relations Society of America- Los Angeles Area Chapter
http://www.prsala.org/

Daddy Yankee: Connecting To Fans While Marketing His Brand

Marketing his music through social networks, IPhone application and website have not only been successful strategies for Daddy Yankee but have also played to the advantage of his fans. Increasing numbers of followers on Twitter and Facebook accounts has made it possible for fans to connect with Daddy Yankee on many levels. As promised to fans, the reggaeton superstar, Daddy Yankee, will have a live stream fan chat on Wednesday March 23rd, 2011.

Sources say that this came about, after the star's Twitter account and Facebook page reached several milestones. Just twenty-four hours after Daddy Yankee's Facebook fan page reached over 6 million fans, on March 15, 2011, Daddy Yankee's Twitter account (@DYNATION) achieved more than one million followers.  Sources say that fans from all over the world made this happen simply by pressing the "follow me" button on his twitter page.

Christina Aguilera: is there an alcohol problem or are media sources exaggerating?

Media sources have been diligent in reporting and highlighting Christina's not so positive incidents within the past few months. Falling on stage, arguing with her mother while intoxicated, showing up drunk at an uninvited party, mixing and forgetting words and getting arrested, are some of the incidents that are causing many not only to raise an eyebrow but are also leading many to believe that the star is dealing with substance abuse. In addition to that, fans and others are now questioning whether or not the singer turned actress is capable of fulfilling her duties as a parent. Celebrities are also adding their two cents. Stars are not only exchanging words about Christina's incidents but some have also posted negative comments about the star on popular social networks. Are the incidents coincidental or is there enough evidence to suggest that the star is having issues with alcohol? Is the media simply fueling the fire by reporting on incidents that have involved alcohol use or that have been rumored to involve alcohol?


Sources claim that not only have friends come forward with concerns about her drinking but are also urging the star turned actress to enter a rehab program. Recently, it was learned that, ex-husband Jordan Bratman had raised concerns about the star's drinking during their child custody agreement. Is it not coincidental that the ex-husband came out to report her so-called drinking issues at the height of its speculation? If the star does have a drinking problem, should media sources and others have the right to make public conclusions about Christina's role as a parent?





Video of the star's
 arrest released
 by Associated Press.