Business
The Easy (and Overlooked) Solution to Your Business’ Toughest Challenge
“A single lie destroys a whole reputation of integrity.” – Baltasar Gracian
Imagine you work for a corporation, providing excellent service. Over two painstaking years, you develop a reputation of ironclad work ethic; your peers see you as a “go-to” technician.
Then the unthinkable happens: at some point in your very swamped second year, you drop the ball and fail to follow through on your commitment to a customer. The consequences and customer backlash not only reflect poorly on you, but also cause undue stress on your entire department.
In your desperation, you decide your presence will cause more harm to the company than good, so you quit, leaving with your tail between your legs.
Not a pretty scenario, is it? The good news is there’s a simple solution for your business.
Integrity is a delicate thing.
Though you didn’t intentionally deceive the customer in that scenario, you were still pegged as a liar, which caused your downfall.
Remember, people more easily hang on to the negative than they do the positive, and for much longer. All it takes is one incident to undo everything else.
In this case, the problem’s root was an overcrowded schedule. You were swamped, so you made a promise to get the customer off the phone because you had to frantically quench the next fire, which was a higher priority. You sincerely intended to follow through with your commitment, but you didn’t.
The simple solution: breathe first and think more than twice.
As Paul Jarvis writes on the Expert Enough blog: only agree to or promise something you are 100% sure you can do.
If you can’t meet that criterion, say no. Saying no actually demonstrates your entrepreneurial and introspective maturity. Saying no shows you’re honest with yourself about your abilities and schedule.
Time is money, but unlike money, time can never be recovered once lost. Which is why, per Jarvis, saying no also shows your respect for your prospect because you’re concerned for her time and producing only the highest quality of work for her (which won’t happen if you’re swamped with other commitments).
If you have a hard time saying no or expressing disinterest in person…
…you might want to get the prospect’s contact information to follow up with him with your answer. When you request to follow up later, it’s much better to provide him with a timeframe: “I’ll double-check my schedule and get back to you by [insert timeframe here — close of business today, 7pm tonight, first thing tomorrow morning, etc.]” and, of course, stick with it.
And since you’re busy, immediately put the commitment in your calendar — your commitment to follow up with the prospect, or the commitment to do the job. You probably already use a scheduling app, but if not, there are plenty available for you. Two of the most ubiquitous apps are Entourage (Microsoft Office) and Google Calendar (free).
Don Miguel Ruiz breaks it down best:
“Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean…”
In the end, the best way to keep your word is to use it wisely (and sparingly). Always take stock of your present commitments before making new ones. Your consistent integrity will separate you from your competition on its own, because in our current culture, most people are jaded by broken promises. They now expect people and companies to not keep their word.
Keep yours and surprise them.
If you find this post helpful, share it with your networks. Thanks for reading. 🙂
Flickr photo by buddawiggi.
Business
Maria del Carmen Rodriguez Joins Florida National News as Spanish-Speaking Reporter and Co-Host
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) is proud to announce the addition of Maria del Carmen Rodriguez as a Spanish-speaking on-camera reporter and co-host, marking another major step in the network’s statewide expansion and celebration of its 11th anniversary.
Rodriguez joins the growing team at FNN News en Español, where she will bring her bilingual communication skills and cultural insight to the forefront of FNN’s Spanish-language news and lifestyle programming. Her arrival underscores FNN’s commitment to serving Florida’s rapidly growing Hispanic and Latino communities with trusted, relevant, and inspiring storytelling.
FNN President J. Willie David, III stated, “Maria del Carmen Rodriguez represents the next generation of diverse storytellers who connect authentically with our audiences. Her addition reflects FNN’s continued mission to expand across Florida while elevating Hispanic voices in broadcast journalism. We are proud to welcome her as part of our 11th anniversary and our vision for the next decade of growth.”
FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario shared, “Maria brings a natural warmth and professionalism to every story she tells. Her passion for community-driven journalism and ability to connect with Spanish-speaking viewers make her a valuable asset to our team. She will help us continue producing content that truly reflects Florida’s diversity and the stories that matter most.”
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos added, “We’re excited to have Maria join the newsroom and our on-camera team. Her bilingual storytelling ability and dedication to authentic, people-centered reporting will strengthen both our English and Spanish platforms. She embodies the spirit of connection and inclusion that defines Florida National News.”
As Florida National News moves into its next decade, the network is expanding its presence across Florida with enhanced on-camera reporting, bilingual programming, and original digital content through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español — continuing its mission to inform, inspire, and empower communities statewide.
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News@FloridaNationalNews.com
Business
Khamare Farrar Joins Florida National News as Part of Network’s 11th Anniversary and Statewide Expansion
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — Florida National News (FNN) proudly announces the addition of on-camera reporter and co-host Khamare Farrar to its expanding newsroom team. Farrar joins as part of FNN’s 11th anniversary celebration and the network’s ongoing statewide expansion across its English and Spanish platforms.
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos on the set of the Florida National News Podcast en Español with new On-Camera Reporter and Co-Host Khamare Farrar.
Photo by Florida National News
Farrar’s arrival represents another milestone in FNN’s mission to amplify diverse voices and deliver trusted, impactful storytelling across Florida. The growing team will continue to strengthen coverage in entertainment, business, politics, and community-focused “Good News & Reviews” segments.
FNN President J. Willie David, III said, “Khamare’s professionalism, energy, and on-camera presence embody the next generation of journalists we’re proud to welcome to Florida National News. As FNN continues to grow its statewide footprint, we’re committed to providing more original programming, exclusive interviews, and engaging storytelling that informs and inspires our viewers.”
FNN Vice President Jenny Rosario added, “We’re building something truly special — a network that reflects Florida’s diversity and brings forward voices that matter. Khamare’s addition strengthens our entertainment and lifestyle coverage, and her charisma will resonate with our audiences across all platforms.”
FNN Managing Editor Monica Hoyos shared, “We’re thrilled to have Khamare join our newsroom team as both a reporter and co-host. Her enthusiasm, curiosity, and storytelling skills will help us continue producing compelling news and feature segments that connect with our audiences worldwide.”
As Florida National News moves into its next decade, viewers can expect expanded coverage, more on-camera reporting, and innovative digital programming through FNN News Network, FNN Sports Network, and FNN News en Español.
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News@FlordiaNationalNews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Florida National News continues its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month by spotlighting another Hispanic leader within its network — Managing Editor Monica Hoyos, a proud first-generation Colombian American whose professional journey reflects her passion for communication, cultural connection, and community empowerment.
A Career Built on Connection and Communication
Monica holds a B.A. in Communications and Spanish from Old Dominion University and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in TESOL from George Mason University. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to bridging language and cultural gaps as both a professional interpreter and voiceover actor, bringing clarity and authenticity to English and Spanish audiences alike.
In 2025, Monica joined Florida National News as Managing Editor, Reporter, and Co-Host of the FNN News Podcast en Español, where she uplifts diverse voices through storytelling, interviews, and press coverage that reflect the heart of the Hispanic community.
Empowering Communities Through Leadership
Beyond her work with FNN, Monica serves as an Independent Contractor, working as Lead Project Manager for Esther Wise Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and as Senior Project Manager for Aravicta, a minority- and women-owned business offering professional speaking, coaching, and communication training for leaders and executives.
In both roles, Monica leverages her leadership and expertise to strengthen community initiatives, create inclusive programs, and promote representation for underrepresented voices across various industries.
Celebrating Heritage and Representation
Monica embraces her Colombian heritage with pride and purpose. She views Hispanic Heritage Month as both a celebration and a responsibility.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor our roots while celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of our community,” said Hoyos. “I carry my family’s journey and culture with me in every role I take on, and I’m committed to opening doors for others to do the same.”
Through her work, Monica continues to embody the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month — honoring her roots, connecting cultures, and empowering others to raise their voices.
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J Willie David, III | News@FloridaNationalNews.com
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