CX Fanatics Podcast

What Doing Everything Is REALLY Costing Your Small Business

Small business owners take pride in being able to figure everything out.
But at what cost? We are scrappy and we put our heads to the grindstone to get it done. In this week's podcast episode I encourage you to take a look at what is slowing down your growth and eating up your time and freedom along the way.  I give you five questions to ask yourself to identify where you should REALLY be spending your daily hours to get the most bang for your buck and reignite your passion in your business again.  I even created a free downloadable worksheet to help you out.  You can grab that at the bottom of this post or by going here.
The questions in the episode and on the worksheet will help you identify tasks that are keeping you stuck where you are as well as tools to move forward and accelerate your growth.  Let's jump into those burning questions (I know you can't wait!)
#1 - Where do you spend most of your time now?
Are you putting out fires? Jumping from one task to the next with no rhyme or reason only to end the day wondering what the shiitake steak did I get done today? I feel you, this can make you feel disheartened, burned out and unfulfilled in your business.  We need to get you out of that routine. In order to do that, we have to figure out where you are spending your time, how much time you are spending on those tasks and where you would rather be spending time.  In the episode, I give you some examples of tasks that eat up your time that you could eliminate or delegate.  Give it a listen here.
#2 - What repetitive tasks can you create processes for?
We all have those time-sucking tasks that MUST be done. But do they need to be done by us? In the episode, I give you the following tools and ideas to easily create processes for your business so that you can then delegate to a team member or contractor.  The first is Loom which enables you to record your screen as your going through a process and then you can share that recording with your new team member. I recommend using a learning portal like Kajabi to organize everything as well as ensure that your processes are private.
#3 - What is always on your to-do list?
If you're like most business owners, you have a never-ending to-do list.  In fact, I really don't understand the phrase "I'm bored!" I've not been bored since starting my business and probably before. Can you relate? But, it is easy to be overwhelmed by that list of tasks, especially when they never seem to reach completion. When you take a look at that list and choose 3 things that have to go, right now! As in today! How does it make you feel when you will get to let those go? Sit with that feeling and then find someone to do them. I know, I know, you can't afford it.  I'll be getting to that in a minute. But remember, to grow we have to let go.  And letting go means releasing the illusion that we are the only ones that can do it "right". Our pride and perfectionism keep us stuck.
#4 - Saving money is costing you time which is costing you money.  Is it worth it?
In episode 84 I walk you through a simple scenario that illustrates exactly how much it's costing you to keep doing everything yourself.  And not just monetarily - but your happiness, passion, and freedom as well.  I also go down a little bit of a rabbit hole when it comes to trading your services or not charging what you're worth.  You'll have to listen in to get the scoop on that, but it's SO worth it! I promise.
# 5- How will you cast a vision for your business and build the team to take you there?
First, you have to know where you are going. Hence the vision. Don't get caught up in the semantics. Make it a year, three years or even five years.  I don't think I would go much past that, because frankly, as we have seen recently, things can change quickly. Once you have that vision you have to come to the conclusion at your own pace that you can't get there alone. No one does. Which means you have to seriously consider who it's going to take in your corner to get you there. I recommend making a list (even if it's just a wish list right now) of those people and describe who they are, what they are like and why they would fit well with your team.  Last but not least, put up a job post on indeed.com, ZipRecruiter or even Craigslist.  Just because you post the job doesn't mean you have to hire someone. But getting into the practice gets you ready to put your plan into action.
 
These five questions will start you down the pathway to spending more time doing what you love in your business while building a support network to get you to your goals.  Don't forget to grab the free worksheet so you can answer these on your own.
Head on over to the Facebook Group and share your challenges, your hopes, your vision, and your next steps.

Creating Multiple Revenue Streams In Your Small Business

On average millionaires have 8 streams of revenue.
I'm sure that COVID 19 has you rethinking some things in your business, including how to move forward. In this week's podcast episode I wanted to give you some food for thought on how to diversify your business revenue.  I came up with 6 different options for you to consider now so that you can begin implementation before the lockdown is over and be miles ahead of your competitors, ready to serve and still meet (and hopefully exceed) those 2020 goals you set a few months ago.
Why create multiple revenue streams in the first place?
You may be saying to yourself, multiple revenue streams? That sounds complicated.  I assure you it's not.  This is why I break it down into simple terms in Episode 83 and give you the edge on not just surviving but thriving after we all get to leave our houses and dance in the street.  How many of you miss hugging? I'm not even a huge hugger, but I miss it for sure!
Here are some of the best reasons to create multiple revenue streams.  First - it will help you navigate and alleviate this very circumstance we have happening right now.  It will also give you the mad skills of thinking outside the box before things get out of hand, the bills pile up and you are wondering how the heck to fill out the paperwork for the small business administration.  You will have a plan in hand and be cool as a cucumber.  Diversification in your business will also help you avoid the recovery hump that most businesses will feel because you will be serving customers during any circumstance.  Lastly, having multiple streams of income will save you time, money and ultimately help you avoid the ups and downs between selling and delivering your products and services.
Who's ready for some diversification tips? 🙋‍♀️ (yep, me too!) If you're asking what can I do check out these ideas ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️
#1 - Develop affiliate partnerships.
What the heck are affiliate partnerships? They are the opportunity for you to make some dough on products and services you already use by referring them to other people. I give tons of examples here in the episode, specifically for restaurants and the affiliate partnerships I have created for my business.  But for your curious mind, here is an example.  Say you use a specific reservation company for your restaurant. They have an affiliate program (referral program). You sign up and start to refer that company to other restaurants and businesses (think salon, dentist, orthodontist, etc.). Every time one of your referrals becomes a customer, you make extra money from that reservation company. Bada-bing bada-boom it's in your account. Just like magic. This also works the opposite way. You can pay other businesses to refer you, new customers.
#2 - Add new products or services to your repertoire.
This is actually easier than you may be thinking it is. If you're saying to yourself, I don't have any extra products or services - stop right there - because this next idea will blow your mind 🤯. You can ask your customers to wave their magic wand when it comes to something you offer and get the answer of what to add.  Let me give you an example. If you are a restaurant and you have a special spice blend that you use with all of your beef dishes.  People constantly remark on that spice, wish they could have it at home or ask for the recipe.  That is a giant clue 🔎 that your customers would pay for that spice blend. That becomes a new product for your business.  I have lots of other ideas and examples in Episode 83. Be sure to head on over and give it a listen.
#3 - Create merchandise to sell.
This is a great way for your customers to promote you, your brand and keep you top of mind. One of the examples I give in the episode is a winery I visited recently with a friend. They had an etched glass with the winery name that they packaged with a tasting. You got to use your own glass and then take it home as a souvenir.  Now every time I use that glass I remember that outing with my friend, but all the winery. Because . . . wait for it . . . their name is on the glass.  What merchandise can you add to your product line up to diversify this income stream?  Come tell me in the Facebook Group.
#4 - Create additional services that you can sell.
This was my favorite part of episode 83 because I go on a little riff.  You never quite know what will come out when you are recording - but this part right here was gold. I used several examples of what restaurants could offer as additional services, but this is so applicable to any business.  Brainstorm how you can add more value to your audience through education or training.  Here is an example that wasn't even in the episode (I bet you're glad you read this aren't you?) if you own a carpet cleaning company. You could create a home maintenance video series. Packed with ideas on how to remove common stains correctly. What will happen to the carpet if you don't get to the stain quickly enough, what to do if stains reappear and how to vacuum properly. You could even partner with some stain removal companies and earn affiliate income on the stain removal products you recommend (review #1 if I lost you there.)
# 5- Can you change your business model to serve more people?
For example, would you be able to shift from just serving customers to also serving businesses (or vice versa)?  I gave a few examples over her in the episode, but I wanted to give you one more that's happening right now. American Giant typically sells apparel to consumers, but they have recently stepped up to partner with hospitals, emergency workers and the government to sew only masks.  This is stepping outside of their normal role and has a dual positive effect.  First, it is helping them establish their brand with new vendors and second their current customers (and even people who didn't know about them previously) now see them as heroes.  What can you do that is similiar?
# 6- Ask your customers what else they want to see.
Do they want your napkins to use at home? (affiliate partnership). Do they love your bathroom soap? Do they want your dishes? Do they want to make linguini alfredo just like you do? (trust me they will likely only do this once because it won't be quite right). You get the idea.  Asking your customers for their input is NEVER a bad idea and will likely wield a plethora of intel you couldn't have gathered any other way.
There you have it, six different ways to diversify your revenue both during and post-crisis mode.  Businesses who have the ability to spread their offerings across multiple avenues and think outside the box will be the businesses that thrive and survive.
Which of these will you be implementing first?  Head on over to the Facebook Group and share what you're excited about adding to your business's revenue menu.

Pivoting Your Small Business During Covid 19 and Beyond

Instead of panicking, it's time to pivot.
Alright, we as Americans have gone into a bit of a panic over the past week with the COVID 19 virus forcing must of into a lockdown situation. If you aren't there yet, chances are, you will be relatively soon. I want to encourage you to think about how to pivot in your business, especially if you are service-based or you have a physical storefront so that you can not only survive but thrive through this change.
First, let's talk about focus.
If you've been a listener of this podcast for a while, you've heard me say where you focus is what you will experience. So if you are focusing on scarcity, fear, and hysteria - that WILL be your experience.  So get your brain to focus on what you want instead and you will have that experience.  Don't believe me? Give it a try and report back.  Turn off the news, change your thoughts, focus on abundance and what is possible for 24 hours and come tell me if things didn't change over in the Facebook Group.
In Episode 82 of the Feed U Podcast, I am sharing five MUST ask questions to keep you on track during the shutdown, and help you plan post-shutdown so that you can not only maintain but grow your small business. For a detailed account of what to do and examples of businesses that are killing it already, listen here.
Question #1 - What can you do now to quickly move your business (or part of it) online?
Can you provide your services through an online application like Zoom? Perhaps you can convert your products into an online store that offers pickup, curbside service or delivery so that you can keep employees working and product heading out the door.  Last week I created a video tutorial on how to set up an online store using Square. You can see it here on my brand new YouTube channel. Can you create online training that your ideal customers will pay for? Can you build a paid or free online community? I give a ton of examples for each of these here in the podcast.
Question #2 - How can your brand become or stay visible?
Do you need to become more active as an asset on social media? Spend more time nurturing your existing or building a new audience? Perhaps you can start sending direct mail again, handwritten notes are always a hit. Or you could physically show up in the community as a resource, authority and go-to person like one of the local businesses did here.  For all the details tune into Episode 82. This is a great time to build brand awareness by giving back.
Question #3 - What can you do now to prepare for re-opening?
We all have some time on our hands. Whether you are still working and have more time at home for weekends, evenings or lunch breaks. Or you are finding yourself at home because you can't be open. Regardless, let's use that time to create some wanderlust in our business.  Where do you want to go in the next 3, 9, or 12 months? What's your long-term vision? Do you need to buckle down and dig into some of those marketing projects you've been avoiding? Does your email list even remember who you are anymore? In this episode, I give you a ton of real-world examples of how to spend your time and the importance of getting clear on your goals, purpose, and vision so that you are prepared for re-opening and beyond.
Question #4 - What you can do now to bring in some revenue?
This piece of the podcast segment is packed full of examples for salons, realtors, food, and beverage industry companies and even alternative medicine providers like energy healers, chiropractors, yoga instructors and more.  I walk through several examples of companies that are doing it right, have already pivoted and are seeing massive success and it's only been a week.  To see how they are doing it and follow their example, listen to the entire episode here. In the meantime, here are so examples:
Food Industry: Offer food delivery and curbside service. Sell ingredients as a meal kit. Sell meal kits. Hand deliver wine, beer or other cocktails (if allowed). Switch from wholesale to retail. Provide hard to attain ingredients like milk, sugar, flour, eggs, etc.
Salons: Create a product & service bundle sell now with a discount. Upload products you recommend or sell and create how-to videos to go with the product to grow your email list. Sell the products on your website or by creating an Amazon store where you can earn affiliate income. Offer gift certificates.
Realtors: Host virtual video tours, a watch party or live open house. Take questions from viewers. Become a resource to potential clients now and follow up when things settle down. Follow up with previous and current clients. 
Alternative Medicine Healers: Pre-sell service packages for post lockdown when everyone will need a reboot. Offer online options for energy work. a Teledoc opportunity to get professional advice or online classes. Complete current and previous patient follow up and create an offer to get them excited about coming in again.
Questions # 5- Ask the following questions:
What does your ideal client need now?
What will they need after the lockdown is lifted?
How can you offer a solution to both?
 
What are you doing to pivot your business during this unprecedented time and how will you run your business differently in the future?  Head on over to the Facebook Group and share what you're doing to thrive through the coronavirus.
Listen to the entire episode here:

Simplifying Facebook Ads With Sam Pilling of BiteMe Marketing

This week I bring on a small business Facebook Ads expert.
Facebook advertising is still the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to promoting your small business.  It enables you to get in front of your ideal client and target your ads so that you can save money, frustration and time. Join me in this special interview episode with Samantha Pilling of BiteMe Marketing.
Facebook ads to bring in sales.
Facebook advertising is a great way to grow and engage your audience, bring attention to your brand and bring in more sales. In Episode 81 of the podcast, my guest Samantha Pilling provides answers to fear around getting started with Facebook Advertising, how to get started quickly and easily and why you should consider Facebook ads to grow your small business.
If you're ready to give Facebook ads a try and want to learn more about how to get started, listen here.
What are the advantages of using Facebook over other types of advertising?
First, answer these questions (they should be familiar if you listen regularly):
Who are your customers?
Where are your customers hanging out?
What can I invest in time and money?
Facebook is still a big player in the market as far as social media platforms.  69% of American adults are using Facebook for over 37 minutes a day.  It's a regular part of their day, meaning your customers are going to be there.  If you're not there, your competitors are, so you should take a look at being there as well.  Facebook also has very sophisticated audience targeting, meaning you can more easily find your customers based on the information that Facebook collects. They have the reach and the targeting and has leveled the playing field for smaller businesses to advertise as far as cost.
How can you use Facebook to research and find out more about your audience?
Using Facebook Insights is a great way to research your audience more thoroughly. But, Facebook is also striving to make it even easier to get in front of your audience. Previously, you had to do a lot of research and know a lot about your audience. But if you give Facebook some leniency in finding your audience, they will do the research for you. They will go and find your customers for you.  In Episode 81 Sam talks more specifically about why it works better to give Facebook some space to go and find your audience, give it a listen.
What if I'm afraid to or don't know how to create an ad?
In this episode, Sam gives you the inside scoop on getting over the fear and trepidation of creating your first or next Facebook Ad.  As in most sales funnels, Sam recommends setting your objective first.  Pick one and then move in that direction. Understanding what your objective is and then tell Facebook that's the direction you want to go and then they will help you accomplish that goal.  You can actually set up an ad, not spend a dime and just try it out and release some of the fear.  For more details, listen to Sam's excellent examples of objectives here. This helps eliminate some of the fear and makes it less complicated because Facebook really does want your ads to work. They aren't trying to trick you or make you fail.
What are some things I can avoid so that my Facebook ads don't get rejected?
Avoid using negativity in your ads.  Facebook users do not want to have a negative experience. They will always do whatever enables their users to have the best experience possible.  If they deem your ad to be more negative it will either cost you more money or they will reject it.
Don't make claims you can't guarantee. Facebook will say that you can't guarantee that everyone will get those results so they will reject your ad
Too much text on your ad. Facebook wants users to have a good experience, overcrowded ads are not eye-appealing and so often will get rejected.  There are text requirements for ads that you can review here. In general, the rule is no more than 20% of your ad should be text.
Certain industries will have a harder time with Facebook ads. You can find more details on those industries and how to create successful ads in this week's episode.
As a new advertiser, you may get rejected just because you're new.  Don't be afraid to ask for a review.  Usually, they will get approved so don't be afraid to ask for a review.
How can you analyze if your ad is working or not?
Depending on your industry, it will be easier to track your return on investment. For example, if you are an e-commerce store, you will know whether or not an ad is working if people are purchasing after seeing your ad.  This is done with the Facebook pixel (more on that below).  
Secondly, don't give up too soon.  Running one ad that didn't work, doesn't mean that Facebook ads don't work.  Sam gives a really good example here, give it a listen.
What is the FB pixel and what does it do?
The Facebook pixel is a tiny piece of code that lives on your website that tracks visitors that come to your website.  It enables you to track who is showing up on your website based on your ad.  But the real power comes from retargeting (we will get to that in just a minute.) I'll be adding a FB pixel tutorial to the Facebook Group this week so you know how to add the pixel to your website.  Stay tuned for that tutorial.  Not in the group? This is a great time to join us.  You can do that here.
What is FB retargeting and why does it matter?
Retargeting is a powerful way for you to keep showing up in front of your ideal customers to remind them of who you are and what you offer. If someone watches a video, comes to your website or sees a post - retargeting ensures that you can get in front of them again with new content or an offer. Keeping you in front of them will put you top of mind so that when they are ready to buy, they will see you and will be more likely to purchase from you.
What are the mistakes you can avoid when using FB Ads?
Knowing your objective and thinking about what the next step is for them on your customer journey will help you succeed dramatically with your Facebook ads.  How will you follow up? Start a conversation? Download your free offer? The good news is, if you prepare and take action, you are already ahead of your competitors. Most companies never think through a strategy, they jump in and start showing ads with no plan of tracking or objective and then have an unsuccessful experience.  Listen to a few specific examples here on how to be successful and to give you a place to launch your own creativity.
Now it's your turn. Are you going to give FB ads a try? Head on over to the Facebook Group and tell us about the first ad you are going to run, or get some insight on your current ad copy or ideas.
If you want to connect with Sam Pilling, you can do that here:
Website
Facebook
LinkedIn

Good Marketing Has Little To Do With Luck

If you're leaving your marketing success to luck, you will find it's run out.
Obviously I'm having a little fun with the play on words this week, but the reality is that successful marketing requires planning. A 5-step plan in fact (I'll get to that in a minute). Regardless if you have a local small business or are a global entrepreneur, planned marketing reaps greater rewards, costs you less money and saves you a whole lot of headaches.
Advertising costs are expensive, online and offline.
Which is why it's even more critical that you plan and manage your spending. Throwing money into advertising and praying that it will lead to new clients is literally "Living on a Prayer". There is a better way and we are going to dig in deep this week in Episode 80 of the podcast.
If you're ready to set up a marketing system that will work, then this is the episode for you, check it out here.
For now, let's dive into that 5-step action plan.
#1 - Define your goal, set your objective.
I'm sure you have heard the quote from Antoine De Saint-Exupery "A goal without a plan is just a wish." The same can be said for your marketing. Without a goal, it's impossible to measure success or know which direction to sail your ship. Goals and objectives are the same things in this case. What is it you are trying to accomplish with this marketing campaign? Keep in mind there can be campaigns within campaigns as well, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. Objectives can be things like:
Increasing your authority
Building your email list by ___ number of subscribers
Warming up your email list
Watching a video
Reading a blog post
and more
#2 - Who is your audience, ideal client?
In case you missed it, I do have a freebie you can grab to help you out on this one.  You can snag it here. In Episode 80 this week, I dive even deeper into some ideal client specifics. I spell out some examples but also cover a new component of audiences, where they are in your funnel.  Leads can be cold, warm or hot. Given that information, you will need to set an objective and plan of action for each sector of your ideal clients. For more details tune in here. I also cover some specifics about local vs. global marketing and how to target your specific business and client type.
#3 - What do your people need?
You all know by now how important it is to be creating content. In this episode, I give you some ideas on how to cater your content to your audience so that they are eating it up. Eliminating the guesswork and the time and energy spent creating something no one wants. Lastly, I caution you to show up where your people are and don't just start a podcast because everyone else is. If your audience isn't listening to podcasts, Houston, we have a problem. Create what they need and they will come. Put it where they already are and you'll get their attention.
#4 - Create a followup system.
I have to confess, I went a little deep here when talking about follow up. The reality is, you can create a follow-up system that is as intricate or simple as you can manage. If you have a team of sales reps, then yeah, your follow-up system will have more moving parts.  More people, more steps.  Capiche?  Regardless, the fortune is in the follow-up. So you MUST have a system to continue the relationship with your new leads. Whether that is an email sequence, phone calls, personalized videos using a tool like Loom, messenger messaging or a combination of all of these, that's entirely up to you. But, put something in place and keep in mind these three factors for your audience temperatures:
Cold--->>> educate and add value ---->>> segment by interest
Warm --->>> present offer --->>> convert to purchase or opt-in
Hot --->>> retarget --->>> send to next offer 
#5 - Analyze your tactics to measure success.
This is the most important step of your strategy because if you aren't measuring success, you will be spinning your wheels. Examining which opt-ins are working, where they are leading as well as emails, phone calls, sales, etc. Don't leave one piece of your funnel unmeasured. It will keep you from continuing with pieces that aren't working or giving you a heads up that something is amok and needs to be fixed. It will save you a ton of time, frustration and money.
Now it's your turn.  If you want all the details for these five steps, head over here and listen to the entire episode.
Which of these steps were you missing? Head on over to the Facebook Group and share what's working, not working and what you still need to do.

Why Your Email List Isn't Growing

Email Marketing has the highest ROI percentage. 
According to Oberlo businesses can expect on average a $42 return for every $1 spent on email marketing.  That's insane.  Compared to paid advertising which is around $1 for every $2 spent according to Browser Media. Needless to say, email is here to stay and if your list is half-baked or not engaged, we need to fix that dude ASAP. (channeling a dad-ism there!)
If you just said, holy shiitake Alisa, my email is broken.
Then don't panic my friend, because I've got you covered with 10 tips to get your email strategy back on track so that you are cha-ching 💵 ringing in more sales in no time.  This week in Episode 79 I am giving you the inside scoop on how to clean up your email act and start gaining conversions. You can listen to the entire scoop over here.
In the meantime, let's jump into that list:
#1 - No one wants your super cute download.
But you spent so much time on it and it's pretty and branded. But, as I often tell my clients, pretty doesn't pay the bills, useful does. We get stuck in the mode of design - thinking so much about our colors and fonts - that we don't realize we aren't solving a problem and so no one is listening. If no one is paying attention, no one is giving you their email address and your list isn't growing. The other pitfalls of clever downloads are that they are copycat material of other downloads out there and don't cater to an audience.  They are too broad. Narrow that sucker down like a chocolate cake on Weight Watchers points. Lastly, your opt-in could be suffering if it's not relevant or outdated. People want what's happening here, now and driving them to crazy town to be fixed pronto!
#2 - Nobody know you have an opt-in.
Oh dear, do I know about this one first hand. Beautiful opt-in, check. Packed with value, check. Solves a problem, check. Promoted to all my ideal customers - crickets.  Oh, shoot! Forgot to promote the darn thing.
Here's the thing - if you don't tell people about your opt-in there isn't a magical internet fairy that will tell them about it. I go into more detail during Episode 79 this week. Give it a listen here. But in the meantime, get out there and start spreading the news so you can test that baby.
#3 - Your email is B-O-R-I-N-G
Think back to when you picked up your phone today. It was probably sometime this morning and if you are one of the OCD people (raising hand) who clears out their notifications each day, then you know exactly how many emails came in overnight and early this morning. On a typical day, my number is between 35-60. And that's just before 9 am. Meaning, if you don't get your reader's attention and stat, they are going to swipe you over to the big green garbage can and all that work was for naught. Ain't nobody got time for that. It's time to break out your 11th-grade Creative Writing skills and get that email read and clicked on and moving onto the next step in your funnel.
#4 - You have left your list in limbo.
You've hooked 'em with your amazing download and then crickets. They don't hear from you for weeks, months or even years. By the time you draft another email, they have forgotten who you are, how you got on their list and they hit that dreaded unsubscribe button.  You work to dang hard for those email addresses, don't let this be your story. Stay consistent, stay engaged and build the relationship. I give you some specific examples of what not to do here, check it out.
#5 - You want too much info on your forms.
Ok, here's the real dealio. People do NOT want to give out their information, they are protective like a mama bear to her cub. If you are asking for anything beyond their name (I recommend just first name) and their email address, it's TOO much! Keep it simple, play it smart and make your opt-in form easy to fill out and move on so they can get your juicy goods.  You can ask for more later, once you've gone on a few professional dates and they know and like you more.
#6 - No one knows who you are. 
I'm still shocked and surprised at the people who start businesses, throw up a website and then wait for the phone to ring. I know starting your business is a BIG deal, but if you don't go out and tell people you are in business, they aren't going to come. You have to be a lead horn tooter for your mad skills, products, and services if you want clients.  So get on out there and network, go to trade shows, get a booth, attend a conference, speak or set up some ads.  Get the word out and then get your people on your email list.
#7 - You're giving away the farm.
Okay, I know you're generous and kind-hearted, but it's also a bad idea to give away everything you've got for free.  This is a REALLY quick way to go broke or worse, confuse your audience and have them go to your competitors. So, keep it simple, share good stuff, but stick to the why.  It's okay to share part of a process and then stick the rest behind a gate that your audience has to pay for with cold hard cash or their email address.  You get to decide because in case no one has told you, this is your business. For a few more tips on what and how to stick to your guns, listen to the episode here.
#8 - Stop making it so dang hard to share your free content.
Holy moly this is an easy one. Add some sharing options to your website and ensure that your social sharing settings are on all lights green so that people can hit that share button from wherever they are and send it to their friends and family.  The more eyeballs on your content the better.  I recommended this plugin suite by Elegant Themes, specifically Monarch, as a sharing plugin for WordPress. When you get lifetime access it also includes Bloom and Divi. It never hurts to add the link to your videos, podcast notes (see what I did there) and on social media so that it's easy peasy for people to get to what you've created.
#9 - You're adding people to your list without permission.
For the love of all things holy, please do NOT add people to your email list without consent. Specific permission. Asking the question, "Can I add you to my email list?" If they say no, then don't! First, it's rude. Second, it will make them curse at you. Third, it's illegal in LOTS of places and could be in your neck of the woods sooner than later.  So practice good habits. If you want to know more about GDPR percussions of adding names to your list without permission, check out this episode with my guest Attorney Aiden Durham. 
#10 - Stop procrastinating already!
If I had a dollar for every time I heard, "I know I need to start emailing my list but . . ." I'd have a whole lot higher profit margin. I get it, you're busy. We all are. But this is critical stuff! I wouldn't keep harping about it if it didn't work. Carve out the time so that you can start building a relationship with your potential customers and stay in front of your current clients. It is the most preferred method of communication for US adults (72%) according to Marketing Sherpa statistics. Meet your audience where they are, in their inbox.
What are you waiting for - that's the end of the list.  Go open your email service provider and get cracking!  If you need a little bit of love between your ears, put on your favorite headphones and head over here so we can have an intimate chat about your email.
Which of these tips will you implement today so you can start reaping part of that 400% ROI? Head on over to the Facebook Group and tell us after you've sent your email.  We can't wait to cheer you on!
 

Self Care Isn't For Suckers

Go ahead and skip the self-care . . . 
. . . and let's see how quickly you build your business. I swear if I hear the word hustle one more time, I'm going to go over the brink into insanity. It's like we wear action as a badge of honor, when in reality - the magic happens when we stop and rest.  Did you catch that last part? In case you didn't, I'm going to repeat it. The magic happens when you stop and rest.
You only get one life.
Say what? Yep! It's true.  This is it.  The one. The only. And you're in the middle of it. So if you are chasing the notoriety, almighty dollar or approval of others at the expense of your own sanity and happiness - you need to get your poop in a group my friend. I say that with total love and affection - but THIS IS IT! And if you aren't taking time to enjoy your life, what's the point of all of it? This is why this week in Episode 78 I break down the symptoms of not getting enough self-care and 5 simple steps to get you back on track. Check out the entire episode here.
Am I a hot mess or just need a little self-care?
Great question! I thought it might be helpful to have a checklist of "watch for" symptoms, in case you've totally lost track of what's happening to you while you build this life you've been dreamin' about.  If you are suffering from one or more of the following, you may be in a self-care crisis:
Confusion
Feeling stuck
Unmotivated
Tired
Burned Out
Frustrated
Overwhelmed
Anxious
Unsure
Fearful
Angry
Holy crap Alisa, I go through all of those at least once a day.
I get it.  I hate to break it to you, but you're an entrepreneur and part of that is considered normal. But when those feelings stick and you can't move past them, it is DEFINITELY time to take a break and recharge.  That means without a phone, email and social media be damned. Because let's be real, all social media does is exasperate your self-loathing when you're already at rock bottom. In this week's episode, I get pretty real with my journey of doing vs being.  They are two very different modes of Operandi.  When you are busy doing doing doing you end up with a handful of hair (because you pulled it out in frustration) and a lot of "to do's" that never seem to get done. Whereas, if you spend your time being who you want to be known for and doing the things that fill you up and make you shine, it's a WHOLE different experience.
I'm picking up what you're putting down, but how do I start?
Lucky for you, I've perfected a list of just how to learn to experience as the Italians say "Il Dolce Far Niente" which translates to "the art of doing nothing." Uh, do nothing Alisa, really? That seems like some hocus pocus woo-woo cuckoo-ca-choo. I know but stick with me - because I AM DEAD SERIOUS when I say this stuff REALLY works.  I know, because I tested it for a month. Does that mean you can lay around everyday eating bonbons and think your biz will hit the big time? Uh, no! But, it does mean that it's ok - more than ok - to take some downtime, do some self-care and then get back to it.
So let's jump into that 5 step plan:
1. Rest. Entrepreneurs are driven. They don't like to stop. They don't really understand how to rest. We are constantly checking our phones, answering emails, connecting to customers on social, making phone calls, stopping in to say hello, networking, marketing, and the list goes on and on. But without the rest, we won't have any energy to do all of the things that need to be done or enjoy the freedom that started us on this entrepreneur gig in the first place. So practice, resting. I know it won't be easy - but oh baby, when you finally get into it - you are going to thank me.  I do love me some chocolate, just sayin'!
 2. Create. Never underestimate the power of creativity. Because I'm telling you what, nothing gets the brain juices flowing like a little bit of creativity. It doesn't matter what you are doing, just jump in there and paint, cook, draw, write, color, build or whatever your little creative heart desires.  I give you lots of different ideas here in the episode.
3. Breathe. Say what? I do breathe, Alisa or I wouldn't be standing here.  I get you, but the reality is we just breathe, it's what our body does to stay alive. When we consciously breathe and tune into our breath on purpose - your whole world is going to open up.  Especially if you add something like yoga to the practice.  Mind blown!  I have had some of the biggest breakthroughs during and after yoga.  I'm telling you, you can't pay enough for that kind of therapy.
4. Move it. You've got to move it move it.  Yeah, I'm getting punchy.  But in all seriousness - move your body. When you take that walk, go for a bike ride, shovel snow or do whatever is you do to move the energy around in your body miraculous things happen. (see above) Whatever you choose to do, make it a habit.  I give you lots of ideas here in Episode 78 as well.
5. Journal. As I'm writing these notes (well after the episode has been recorded) I had an experience JUST today that shifted my entire day around simply because I started journaling. As entrepreneurs, we do a LOT of thinking. Sometimes to our own detriment. Because we need to get out of our heads. One of the greatest ways to do that is to pick up a pen (yes a pen) and start writing. There is no right way to journal.  Just do what works for you. Below are a few of my favorite places to find journals and some journal prompts to get you going. I share my crazy way of journaling here in the episode, check it out.
Journals:
Amazon
2nd & Charles
Silk & Sonder has bundled a planner and journal and they are GORGEOUS
Journal Prompts
Now it's up to you! Are you going to buy into the hustle, or give yourself some downtime?  Head on over to the Facebook Group and share with the group your next self-care strategy.
Listen to the entire episode here:

Finding Your Ideal Client To Save Time and Money

The #1 way to get traction in your business is to get ultra-clear about who you serve.
As business owners, we want to help people, specifically people that are in one way or another like us. Whether that is how we are now or similar to who we used to be. Unfortunately, our brain convinces us that we should help EVERYONE. First, course of action - stop shoulding on yourself. The second course of action, pick your favorite.
I know you've been taught not to have favorites.
But when it comes to the world of marketing, it's not just recommended, it's required to gain traction, stand out and expedite your success rate. But one of the HARDEST parts of being an entrepreneur is nailing down your ideal client. This is why this week in Episode 77 I cover the top reasons why finding and aligning with your ideal client will not only save you time and money but it will help you gain traction and get out of that desperate loop of overwhelm when it comes to marketing. You can listen to the entire episode here.
Have you ever said to yourself "If I don't help everyone, there won't be anyone who hires me?"
I see a few hands raised and hear a few #preach responses out there. I think if you are walking the path of creating a business, this thought enters your mind at one point or another. It makes sense to the scarcity devil that lives between our ears. But the abundance angel doesn't believe it for a minute. The reality is that if you keep trying to help everyone, you won't be able to help anyone. Simply because you will meld into the background like a landscape in a Monet painting.
When you target who you help, it's like hitting the easy button in your marketing.
Because you no longer wonder what to say, who you're talking to, whether they are listening or how they will find you. Because you know where they hang out, what they're doing at lunchtime on a Tuesday and what their favorite Netflix binge show is. Most importantly, you understand what is keeping them stuck in their business and causing them to lose sleep at night. In this week's episode, I give you a huge list of what happens when you don't clarify your customer and I'm not going to lie, it's not pretty.  It can add up to thousands of hours wasted and even more money thrown out the window.
I'm sold! I'm ready to find my ideal client, but where do I start?
Well, I have good news and bad news. The answer starts between your ears. The good news it's not hard to access.  Nine times out of ten you are your ideal client, or you have been in their shoes at some point in your business journey. The bad news, our brains don't always remember where we were and what we're struggling with once we move past that hurdle making it hard to pin down pain points. Regardless, interviewing yourself is a great place to start to define your ideal customer base. Asking questions like what has been my business journey. When I started what was the biggest struggle I faced? How did I overcome the problem? Where do I spend most of my time? Where did I spend most of my time before? You get the idea. Self-interviewing helps you create a baseline for where you were, where you have become and where you are striving to be. People connect with people. Your people are ready to connect with you - so start here to begin to understand them and create that connection. The deeper you dig the faster you will connect.
Try searching in:
Business Associations
Networking Groups
Social Media Groups, Pages and Comments
Talking To Your Customers
Google
Look At Your Competition
Take that baseline and search out more information about your customer.
 
If you can arm yourself with as much detail as possible it makes your marketing strategy, content creation and overall life SO MUCH EASIER. I pinky promise! Because you will stop wasting time on social media platforms that will never get you in front of your audience, at coffee meetings with people who can't afford you and most of all cut through the forest and create a pathway for the people who need you most to find you quickly and easily.
In the episode, I share two REALLY good examples of how not serving a specific customer will take you off task, have you questioning every business decision you are making and worst of all, delaying or deterring your success because your people can't find you or are confused about whether or not you are the answer to their prayers.  When you are clear, people take out their credit cards. Clarity rings more cash registers than a Black Friday sale.
Now it's your turn! Where will you go on a treasure hunt to find more information about your ideal client?  Head on over to the Facebook Group and share the newest detail you learned about your ideal customer.