Marketing Gamble: Free Products vs. Loan-Fueled Ads
Engage and Convert: Best Practices for Social Media Lead Nurturing
In today’s digital age, social media has become a crucial platform for businesses to generate leads and convert them into loyal customers. But what exactly are leads, and what does conversion mean in this context?
Leads refer to potential customers interested in a business’s products or services. Usually, they provide their contact information or engage with the brand. Conversion, on the other hand, is the process of turning these leads into paying customers.
Effective lead nurturing on social media involves building relationships with these potential customers using various strategies and techniques and ultimately guiding them through the sales funnel.
This blog post will explore the best practices for lead nurturing and conversion on social media to help maximize marketing efforts and boost ROI.
Best Practices for Lead Nurturing and Conversion on Social Media
Understand Your Audience
To nurture leads effectively, one needs to understand the audience. This involves research and segmentation. With research, social media analytics gathers data on the audience’s demographics, interests, and behaviours. Once that is done, the audience gets segmented into different groups based on interests, engagement level, and readiness in the buying process.
Create Valuable Content
Content is king when it comes to social media marketing. To nurture leads, create relevant content that addresses the audience’s needs and pain points. Engage the audience using various content formats, such as videos, infographics, blog posts, podcasts, etc. Provide valuable information that helps the audience make informed decisions.
Use Personalization
Personalization is crucial to making our leads feel valued and understood. This can be achieved by personalizing content messages. Use the lead’s name and reference their specific interests in the targeted messages. Another personalization tool is targeted ads. Use social media advertising platforms to deliver personalized ads based on user behaviour and preferences.
Leverage Social Proof
Social proof can significantly influence the lead’s decision-making process. Utilize record-keeping proofs like testimonials, case studies, and user-generated content. Testimonials will share positive reviews from satisfied customers. Case studies will showcase success stories to demonstrate the effectiveness of the products or services. Lastly, user-generated content will encourage customers to share their experiences with the brand on social media.
Engage Consistently
Consistent engagement is crucial for keeping leads interested. Reply to comments, messages, and mentions in a timely manner. Engage the audience by asking questions and encouraging discussions. And use tools like polls, quizzes, and live videos to interact with the audience in real-time.
Utilize Lead Magnets
Lead magnets are incentives offered to potential customers in exchange for their contact information. Effective lead magnets can be eBooks and guides, discounts and coupons, or webinars and workshops. The first will offer valuable resources that address the audience’s pain points. The second will provide special offers to encourage leads to take action. And the third will host online events that offer valuable insights and solutions.
Implement Retargeting Campaigns
Retargeting helps keep the brand top-of-mind for leads who have previously interacted with our content. Use social media ads and email campaigns to retarget. Show ads to users who have visited the website or engaged with the social media profiles. And send targeted emails to leads who have shown interest in the products or services.
Track and Analyze Performance
Tracking and analyzing marketing efforts is essential to continually improving lead nurturing. Use analytics tools to monitor engagement, click-through rates, and conversions. Experiment with different content, messages, and ad formats to determine what works best. Use the insights gained from analytics to refine and optimize effective lead-nurturing strategies.
Conclusion
Nurturing leads and converting them into loyal customers on social media requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the audience. By creating valuable content, personalizing interactions, leveraging social proof, and consistently engaging with the audience, one can build strong relationships with the leads and guide them through the sales funnel. Implementing lead magnets, retargeting campaigns, and tracking marketing performance will further enhance efforts and help achieve marketing goals.
Remember, the key to successful lead nurturing and conversion on social media is to stay committed to providing value and building trust with the audience. With these best practices, one can transform social media presence into a powerful tool for driving business growth and success.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Freelance Partnerships: How to Maximize Opportunities
In today’s dynamic business environment, small businesses increasingly turn to freelance partnerships to access specialized skills. Freelancers can manage workloads and drive growth for the business. They are the ones that provide the agility and expertise that small businesses need to stay competitive. Keep in. mind that optimizing these partnerships requires a strategic approach. This guide offers 8 practical tips on effectively engaging freelancers to maximize their contributions to the business.
Clearly Define the Needs
Start by identifying the specific tasks or projects that require external expertise. This could range from graphic design and content writing to software development and marketing, …etc. Outline the scope of work, deliverables, deadlines, and any specific requirements. A detailed job description will help attract the right talent.
Do this at the beginning of the search for a freelancer. Clear definitions prevent misunderstandings and ensure the business finds a freelancer whose skills match the business needs.
Choose the Right Platforms
Utilize freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr, as well as industry-specific job boards and social networks. Look for platforms that have robust selection processes and provide reviews and ratings from previous clients.
Begin the search as soon as the job description is clear and ready. Being proactive can help find the best candidates before they get hired by others.
Evaluate Candidates Thoroughly
Assess freelancers based on their portfolios, reviews, and previous work experience. Conduct interviews and, if necessary, ask for samples or small test projects to validate their experience. Focus on their technical skills, reliability, communication abilities, and cultural fit with the business.
Do not rush during the evaluation process. Quickening the assessment step can lead to mismatches and unsatisfactory results.
Set Clear Expectations
Clearly communicate the expectations regarding work quality, deadlines, and interaction frequency. Establish clear guidelines for reporting progress and resolving issues. Ensure both parties agree on the scope of work and timelines.
Do this before starting any project. Setting expectations upfront can prevent conflicts and ensure smooth collaboration.
Foster Strong Communication
Use project management tools like Trello, Asana, or Slack to keep track of progress and maintain regular communication with freelancers. Schedule regular check-ins and provide feedback promptly. Encourage an open line of communication for any questions or concerns.
Implement this throughout the project’s duration. Consistent communication helps maintain alignment and address issues promptly.
Build Long-term Relationships
Treat freelancers as part of the team. Acknowledge their contributions, provide constructive feedback, and ensure timely payments. Invest time in understanding their working style and career goals. This can lead to more personalized and productive collaborations.
Focus on relationship-building from the beginning and continue nurturing it beyond the completion of projects. Long-term relationships can lead to better work quality and loyalty.
Offer Competitive Compensation
Research market rates for the required skills and offer fair compensation. Consider bonuses for outstanding work. Ensure that payment terms are clear and adhere to them. This builds trust and encourages freelancers to prioritize their projects.
Discuss compensation early in the hiring process and confirm it before starting any work. Regularly review rates to remain competitive.
Continuously Evaluate and Improve
After each project, conduct a review to assess what went well and what could be improved. Solicit feedback from the freelancer as well. Look at the efficiency of the processes, the quality of work delivered, and the overall collaboration experience.
Make this a routine practice after every project. Continuous improvement helps refine your approach and achieve better outcomes in future collaborations.
In conclusion, freelancers can be invaluable assets for small businesses, providing expertise and flexibility that full-time employees might not offer. By clearly defining the business needs, choosing the right platforms, thoroughly evaluating candidates, setting clear expectations, fostering communication, building long-term relationships, offering competitive compensation, and continuously evaluating the partnership, one can maximize the benefits of freelancer collaborations. Implementing these strategies will help create productive and mutually beneficial relationships with freelancers, driving the business toward greater success.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Overcoming Isolation: Strategies for Small Business Owners
Running a small business can be a rewarding journey, but it often comes with challenges. During my 25 years of running a small business, I found that the most annoying challenge for an entrepreneur is feelings of isolation, which may lead to a lack of motivation. Especially in today’s rapidly changing business world, staying connected and motivated is essential to achieving small business goals and meeting projected revenue targets. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical strategies to overcome isolation, stay motivated, and drive success in our small business.
Build a support network
- Connect with fellow entrepreneurs through networking events, industry associations, online communities, or social media.
- Join mastermind groups or be a part of peer advisory boards. There, you can share experiences, seek advice, and receive support from like-minded colleagues.
Seek Guidance
- Find an experienced mentor or coach who has worked in your industry and can provide valuable insights, guidance, and encouragement.
- Schedule regular meetings or check-ins with your mentor to discuss challenges, brainstorm ideas, and set goals for your business.
Prioritize Self-Care
- Take breaks, exercise regularly, and prioritize activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
- Practice self-awareness techniques like journaling to reduce stress and enhance focus.
Set clear goals and milestones
- Define specific, measurable goals for your business and break them down into achievable milestones.
- Regularly review and track your progress towards your goals, celebrating successes and adjusting strategies as needed.
Stay informed
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends, market changes, and new technologies that may impact your business.
- Be flexible and willing to adapt your strategies and tactics in response to evolving market conditions and customer preferences.
Celebrate Achievements:
- Acknowledge and celebrate both small and large achievements, milestones, and successes in your business.
- Share successes with your team, customers, and supporters to foster a positive and motivated company culture.
Feeling isolated and unmotivated is a common challenge for small business owners, but it’s important to remember that we are not alone. By building a support network and with the help of a mentor, along with the other strategies, one can overcome isolation and stay motivated in order to drive success for the small business. Remember to be patient with yourself, stay focused on the vision, and celebrate the journey towards achieving goals and projected revenue.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Make sure to comment and add your feedback. I would love to hear from you!
The Future of Business Process Outsourcing
Business process outsourcing (BPO) is a practice in which a company or organization contracts out specific non-core business tasks and functions to external service providers. Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) goes beyond the routine and transactional tasks typically associated with traditional BPO. It focuses on activities that require in-depth expertise with specialized knowledge, analytical skills, and domain-specific insights.
KPO services can include market research, data analysis, financial and legal services, scientific research, and various forms of intellectual property research. These tasks often require a higher level of education and domain knowledge. KPO providers usually track professionals with in-depth expertise in areas like finance, law, engineering, healthcare, and more.
The influence of KPO on small businesses in Canada can be significant in several ways:
Access to Expertise
Small businesses may not have the resources to hire full-time professionals with specialized knowledge. By outsourcing KPO tasks, they can access the expertise they need at the time they need it without the commitment of in-house hiring.
Cost Savings
Outsourcing KPO tasks can be cost-effective. Businesses will only pay for the specific services they require. These cost savings can be especially beneficial for small businesses with limited budgets.
Focus on Core Competencies
By outsourcing knowledge-intensive tasks, small businesses can focus on their core competencies and strategic activities. That, in turn, will allow them to grow and innovate more effectively.
Scalability
KPO services provide flexibility and agility for small businesses to adapt to constantly changing market conditions. These services can be easily scaled up or down based on the business’s needs.
Competitive Advantage
Small businesses can gain a competitive edge by accessing high-quality research. Precise data analysis and other specialized services will help them make informed decisions and respond to market trends effectively.
Globalization
KPO providers often operate globally. They give small businesses access to a diverse talent pool, allowing them to tap into international markets and opportunities.
Risk Mitigation
KPO providers may offer risk mitigation services, such as legal and compliance support, to help small businesses navigate complex regulatory environments.
While KPO can offer numerous benefits to small businesses in Canada, there are also challenges to consider, such as data security and the potential need for effective management of outsourcing relationships.
Small businesses should carefully evaluate their needs, choose the right KPO partner, and establish clear communication and data security protocols to maximize the advantages of outsourcing knowledge-intensive tasks. Additionally, the specific impact of KPO on small businesses in Canada will depend on the industry, market conditions, and individual business strategies.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
A Customer Centric Strategy to Sales
Sales and customer success are two interconnected aspects of a business. They both play a vital role in driving growth and profitability. Traditionally, sales have been primarily focused on acquiring new customers and closing deals. However, in recent years, the concept of customer success has gained significant importance in the business world.
In order to convince the customer that the sale is focused on their business success, one needs to adopt a customer-centric sales strategy that demonstrates a deep understanding of customer needs. It will also showcase how the product or service can genuinely benefit the customer’s business.
Here is a step-by-step guide for crafting such a strategy:
Research and Understand the Customer
Before engaging with the customer, conduct thorough research to understand their business, industry, pain points, and goals. You may use their website, social media, any available case studies, or testimonials to gain insights into their specific challenges and achievements. Visit their premises and gain insight into their work environment. And review their vision and mission statement to understand their company values.
Listen Actively
When interacting with the customer, be an active listener. Let them talk about their business, objectives, and concerns. By paying attention, you can identify opportunities where your product/service aligns with their needs. Show genuine interest in wanting to learn about their company and how they reached the level of success they are in.
Tailor Your Approach
Based on research and listening, customize the sales pitch. Praise the customer for the successes they have gained, and address the customer’s specific pain points and goals. And showcase how the offered product can help the company achieve its objectives, and increase its success rates.
Highlight Relevant Benefits
Focus on the benefits that are most relevant to the customer’s business success. How will the product/service save them time, increase efficiency, reduce costs, boost employee morale, raise revenue, or improve customer satisfaction? Use concrete examples, and show data when needed to back up claims.
Provide Case Studies and Success Stories
Share case studies or success stories of other clients in similar industries or situations who have achieved significant success using the offered product/service. This will definitely build credibility and demonstrate real-world application.
Offer a Solution, Not Just a Product
Position the offered product/service as a comprehensive solution to the customer’s problems rather than a mere commodity. Show how it integrates into their existing processes, fills gaps, adds value across their operations, and achieves company targets.
Offer a Trial or Pilot
If applicable, offer a trial period or pilot project. This allows the customer to experience the benefits firsthand without a significant commitment, building confidence in the solution’s potential to drive success.
Provide Excellent Customer Support
Show commitment to providing ongoing support and assistance to ensure that the customer achieves the desired outcomes. Reliable customer support enhances confidence in the salesperson’s dedication to their success. Don’t wait for the customer to ask for contact information or website, initiate providing the client with all information needed to facilitate their customer experience.
Focus on Long-Term Partnership
Express a desire to establish a long-term partnership with the customer. Efforts and interest in their continued success will resonate positively. By doing that, the customer will be more inclined to view the sales process as a collaborative effort.
Follow Up and Request Feedback
After the completion of the sale, stay engaged with the customer. Seek feedback on their experience with the product/service. Address any concerns promptly, and continue to explore opportunities to add value to their business.
Remember, the key to a successful customer-centric sales strategy is to genuinely care about the customer’s success. Demonstrating that commitment throughout the sales process and beyond will increase customer confidence. It will build trust and loyalty that leads to lasting and fruitful business relationships.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post! You may follow BizReflections blog for future business related posts and updates. (FOLLOW button in sidebar). I would also like to invite you to subscribe to BizReflections YouTube channel. Our channel has a collection of business videos that equip small business owners for growth.
Digital Transformation: How to Transform Your Business for the Future
Digital transformation is the process of integrating digital technologies and strategies into all aspects of a business. The main objective of this process is to fundamentally change how the business operates and delivers value to its customers. The practice will include rethinking and redesigning business processes, creating new business models, and leveraging technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
The typical outcome of a successful digital transformation is to improve customer experience, increase employee productivity, and drive revenue growth.
And here are some key steps to transforming a business for the digital age:
Define your vision and strategy
Start by identifying what the core values of your business are and how can technology support them. Then, define your long-term vision and strategic objectives. And finally, develop a roadmap that outlines how you plan to achieve your goals(*). The homework in this step is foundational, and we will discuss the details and how-to’s in future blog posts.
Create a digital culture
Digital transformation requires a culture with three pillars: openness to experimentation, risk-taking, and continuous learning. Empower leadership and all employees to embrace new technologies, and foster a culture of innovation.
Invest in technology and infrastructure
Evaluate your current technology supply and determine what needs to be updated or replaced. Invest in modern digital tools and infrastructure that can support your business objectives.
Streamline your operations
Redesign your business processes to streamline workflows and eliminate holdups. Use data and analytics to identify areas for improvement and automate repetitive tasks.
Engage with customers
Leverage digital channels to engage with customers and deliver personalized experiences. Use analytics to identify customer data and insights to tailor your products and services to their needs.
Foster agility
Digital transformation is an ongoing process that requires responsiveness and adaptability. Develop a flexible, agile organization that can respond quickly to changing market conditions and customer needs.
In summary, digital transformation encompasses more than just technology. It requires a fundamental shift in the way businesses operate and a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. Work on transforming your business for the future and stay ahead of the competition in this digital age.
* Read the blog post titled “A Roadmap to Business Transformation”
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
The Key to a Professional Business Image
Having a designated business address is an important aspect of starting and growing a successful business. A business address is key to a professional image. It can enhance credibility and help to separate personal and business dealings. It can also be necessary for legal compliance and for receiving mail and packages related to the business. In today’s digital age, a corporeal business address may not be necessary for day-to-day operations. However, it still plays a vital role in building a strong and trustworthy brand. Whether you are starting a new business or looking to expand your current operations, finding the right business address provider can help you achieve your goals and take your business to the next level.
When looking for a business address provider, consider the following factors:
Location:
It is important to look for a provider with a strategic location. Pick an address in a reputable and convenient area. Aim to have it close to your target audience or business partners, as that will not only enhance your image but it will also make you seem reachable upon need.
Mail Receipt:
Make sure the provider offers secure and convenient mail receipt services. Some providers offer Package receipt while others may not. Some providers offer designated mailboxes while others may not. Assess your business needs and find the providers that fit what the business requires.
Professional Image:
Look for a provider that offers a professional and credible business address. For example, having an address in a corporate building vs having an address in a retail store. Only you can determine what works best for your business! Strategize, and choose a provider that can enhance your marketing and advertising expression.
Customer Service:
Choose a provider with responsive and helpful customer service. At times you may need to connect with the provider to ask a question or resolve an issue. It is during these times that you rely on your provider’s approachable customer service.
Cost:
Incorporate the cost of a business address provider in your budget. Review the services offered making sure they meet your business requirements. Shop around for affordable pricing so you do not exceed your budget.
Additional Services:
Look for providers that offer additional services, such as mail forwarding, virtual office services, and meeting room rentals. Even though you may not need all that as you start up your business; however, these are services you may need later on as the business grows.
Reputation:
Research the provider’s reputation. Search for online reviews and speak with other business owners. Your provider’s reputation will become your business reputation; so make an informed decision when choosing a business address provider.
Make it a part of your home business strategy
If you are a home business, consider having a business address. Establishing a professional image, meeting legal requirements, protecting privacy, and managing mail and packages are crucial to operating a business. Separating personal and business finances and improving marketing and advertising efforts is vital for growth. Getting a business address helps to establish credibility, promote privacy, and maintain a clear separation between personal and business dealings.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Google Search Tricks You Never Thought Exist
How often do you use Google search?
Google’s plan for its search feature seems to be geared to continuously increase the number of searches even without any submission by the user. We are at a point now where we ask Google for everything! Want to know the weather? Ask Google. Want to get the location of a business? Ask Google. What to know where a restaurant is? Ask Google.
Google seems to appreciate that people are using their search feature and they are definitely investing in it. Now we can perform searches that are based on keywords and get our results without even having to submit the search. Let’s test that:
Go to Google and type the following search keyword: Weather
Isn’t it helpful to save time and get the result instantly without even submitting the search? Wait, there’s more! Google search has extended its feature ability to do simple calculations.
Let’s try another function. This time let’s try the calculation: 567*44=
Google now instantly gives us the answer, without even submitting the inquiry for any calculation! That means that now Google search can replace our calculator for simple calculations. In fact, now Google has its own calculator under the search term: Calculator Google.
To take that further, Google search now does complex calculations, graph functions, and it solves geometry problems. It converts Fahrenheit to Celsius, currency and weight comparisons, and a lot more.
Google search even compares travel information including price comparison!
Future Features
More Google searches are coming up every year. And there will be new features with artificial intelligence in years to come including a 360-degree shopping experience that is still being worked on.
If you are a fan of Google products like I am, keep looking out for new search features regularly. Google’s latest technology will definitely continue to contribute efficiency to our daily work routine.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Entrepreneurs Make Exceptional Hikers
This summer I decided to explore forests and parks in an attempt to increase activity and regain muscle strength. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that once I make a decision, I have to work on an implementation plan. So, in an attempt to understand what hiking is all about, I decided with my girls to go for a walk in Hilton Falls Park. Starting with a bottle of water and an old pair of walking shoes, I walked 2.5 km. That day, I enjoyed my time with my girls, I took some pictures and I went back to where my car was parked, thinking that I have hiked that day. Little did I know that hiking is a sport and one can become a professional hiker!
As I approached my car, I noticed a lady in the car beside mine packing her hiking sticks. She looked like she was performing a cleansing ritual from the sweat of a long hike. As I came closer, I recognized her face and even her name came to mind! I called her name out: “Karen?!”, she looked at me with eyes that were trying to recognize who I am. I mentioned my name, and we immediately started recollecting the time when we were working together at an International non-profit organization, over 20 years ago.
We stood there for almost half an hour chatting and updating each other news. I mentioned to Karen that my plan for the summer is to hike the trails of Halton Hills. She then told me about her hiking journey and how she’s been volunteering with the city as a ranger on the trails. She even volunteered to be my guide in my hiking journey!
What? I questioned if I heard that right! So, I sought clarification, and she confirmed that she would volunteer to be my guide on my hiking trips. That was at the beginning of June 2022. And since then, I have been hiking with Karen at least once a week. That is when I realized that hiking is more than just walking the trails. It is an adventure, it is a commitment, and it requires the qualities that I have acquired as an entrepreneur. I understood then that entrepreneurs make exceptional hikers! And here are four reasons why Entrepreneurs make exceptional hikers:
Entrepreneurs are Visionaries
Entrepreneurs are usually good visionaries. They can see the bigger picture of where they want their business to be within a certain period of time. They willingly work hard to get where they want to be one step at a time. Similarly, hikers can clearly identify what hikes they dream of and plan to hike within a specific time period. Hikers are able to discover their ambitions and they work hard to succeed in achieving their dream hikes one step at a time.
Entrepreneurs are Risk Takers
Being a risk taker is an important quality that helps Entrepreneurs flourish and succeed. In fact, one cannot be an entrepreneur without possessing the ability to take risks. It is that challenge that drives them to accomplish and meet goals. After all, the majority of entrepreneurs have taken the risk of leaving a secure job to start their entrepreneurial journey.
In comparison, hikers take risks during every trip they make. Whether it be inside a forest, every time they hop over slippery rocks and waterfalls, or even as they climb rocky mountains. They are very much aware of the predictable, but, at the same time, they are not afraid to face the unpredictable. After all, isn’t that what risk-taking is all about?
Entrepreneurs are Determined
Entrepreneurs are very determined people. They keep trying despite failure. They are good at picking up the pieces and giving it another attempt, and they keep doing that until they succeed. Entrepreneurs learn from their own mistakes and they keep developing their ways until they achieve their goals. Hikers have different challenges, but it is their determination that allows them to reach their targets. Trust me, walking 8 km was not an easy task for me, and many times during that hike I felt discouraged and unable to continue. It was only through my determination that I was able to achieve hiking that distance. Professional hikers go on 25km and 30km trips and they keep at it until they reach their objective.
Entrepreneurs are Persevering
Perseverance is a quality that refines character. It is a skill that can be acquired through experience (learning) or through an example (other’s influence). It is a quality that determines the success of an entrepreneur. John D Rockefeller, who is a business tycoon, said: “I do not think that there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance.” This quality has the same effect on hikers as they face challenges; whether it be physical challenges (pains and aches) or natural and environmental challenges (slippery rocks, muddy or dry soil,….), it is through perseverance that hikers succeed in achieving their goals and reaching unsurpassed objectives.
Are you an entrepreneur? Then, my recommendation to you is to consider hiking as the activity that will help you build your entrepreneurial character. The qualities that entrepreneurs already have does equip them to become hikers, and hiking will help them polish their abilities to become the entrepreneurs they want to be.
Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.
Four Steps For Entrepreneurs To Get Out Of Your Own Way!
A fixed mindset holds people back because they believe that their talents and abilities are set in stone, which limits their ability to learn and grow. In order to succeed, entrepreneurs need to overcome their own mindsets. On the other hand, a growth mindset recognizes that skills and talents can be developed through effort, practice, and learning from mistakes. This type of thinking is critical for entrepreneurs who want to achieve high levels of success.
“Be real. There is no bigger magnet to attract your ideal clients than your authentic self. – Puja Misra”
The first biggest barrier to business growth is a lack of confidence.
This can manifest itself in different ways, such as second-guessing yourself, not taking risks, or being too perfectionistic. However, all of these behaviors have one thing in common: they stem from a fear of failing. Instead of seeing failure as a setback, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. The only way to achieve great things is to embrace failure and adopt a growth mindset.
People with a growth mindset see obstacles as learning opportunities. They are not afraid of failure, because they know that it is only through trial and error that they will find success. They listen to their inner voice and intuition, trusting their gut instinct to guide them. And they are not afraid to take risks, because they know that this is how the big wins are made. This shift in thinking will open up new possibilities and help you reach your full potential.
The second barrier is personal brand reputation.
In today’s digital age, our personal brands are more important than ever before. And many entrepreneurs are so worried about what other people will think of them that they hold back from really putting themselves out there and lose out on an immense amount of opportunities. But the truth is that if you’re not actively working on your personal brand, you’re not going to get very far in business.
Additionally, always remember that you are your Brand and your personal brand reputation is an asset so don’t be afraid to promote yourself and your business.
The third barrier is brand marketing.
Building a brand, marketing and advertising is an important way for any business to reach new clients. Too often, entrepreneurs think that they can’t afford to invest in marketing, or that it’s not worth the effort. Reality is that without a strong brand presence and marketing strategy, your business will struggle to reach its potential and stand apart in a crowded marketplace… If you want to grow your business, you need to invest in branding and marketing.
The fourth Barrier is time management skills.
As a small business owner, you have a lot on your plate. From sales and marketing to product development and customer service, there are a lot of moving parts to your business. And while it’s important to be involved in all aspects of your business, you can’t do everything yourself. That’s why time management skills are so important for entrepreneurs.
By learning how to manage your time effectively, you can free up more time to focus on brand strategy, business marketing, and other activities that will help grow your business. And when your business is growing, you’ll be able to show potential investors that you’re serious about making profits. In addition, good time management can help you to build a strong reputation for customer service and quality products or services.
Submitted by:
Puja Misra, the President of Zoom Into Life Studio. A creative branding agency helping businesses & entrepreneurs transform into Brands for over a decade. Proudly serving small businesses in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Mississauga, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area.
Possessing the Radar For Opportunity
What did I learn today as an entrepreneur?
I learned that not everyone sees there is always a verb before the word opportunity.
Think about that for a minute.
We need to LOOK for opportunities.
We need to CREATE opportunities.
We need to GIVE or be GIVEN opportunities.
We need to TAKE opportunities.
We need to CAPITALIZE on opportunities.
We need to PASS on opportunities.
We need to USE opportunities.
We need to RECOGNIZE opportunities.
I am sure I am missing a few on my list here but I think you get where I am going with this. Opportunity and or opportunities always take work and or action on our part.
The famous Ann Landers wrote, “Opportunities are usually disguised as hard work, so most people don’t recognize them.” Her point has two aspects that ring so true for me. #1 – They are work; and #2 – They are disguised.
Opportunities do not just arrive and materialize into all we hope they will be. They do not self-install or work for us and our businesses, though they do seem to have a mind of their own. For some, opportunities will sit and wait forever – it seems; and for others, opportunities will be there when we are ready to receive them; and yet for still others, opportunities arrive and leave so quickly it is in hindsight that they recognize they were even there.
Another point on opportunities is often “you” don’t see what “I” see. This viewpoint goes two ways. You don’t see what I see for you, and I don’t see what you see for me. What do I mean by that? I believe there are a lot of factors to this point but to me, this says so loudly we should be pointing them out for one another and be open to seeing from one another’s perspective.
Another verb I should have added to the list above is ‘chasing’. I have been guilty of ‘chasing’ an opportunity only to find it is not within my reach and by reach, I mean capability, but yet, I have spun my wheels trying to take something I was not capable of holding onto and working effectively.
Not every opportunity is for us. Hardcore fact! This is my second favorite part of my thought process on opportunities. My first favorite part was the knowledge there is always action associated with opportunities. My second favorite part is we truly need to know where we are going, what we want to accomplish, and what our core goals and values are to determine what opportunities are meant for us! Not every opportunity is for us.
Be willing to do the action/verb for your forward movement and be a team player. Keep an eye out for fellow business owners. I, we, they need your perspective at times and community is so valuable for just that – perspectives around opportunities.
Submitted By:
Cheryl Clark of Clark Strategies | team@clarkstrategies.ca | www.clarkstrategies.ca
The Most Powerful Marketing Tool You’ll Ever Need!
Adriene Mishler is the producer and host of Yoga with Adriene. She dominates the online yoga space with over 8.53 million YouTube subscribers.
She is called the ‘People’s Yogi’.
But,
It wasn’t always like this.
Back in 2012 when Adriene got introduced to the online space and started uploading weekly yoga video content to her YouTube channel, little did she know that by 2020 she would have built a very successful business and an online global community of over 8 million people.
What was her secret?
The MOST powerful tool you can have in your marketing toolbox.
Consistency.
By sharing free high-quality yoga content on her channel every single week for over eight years she eventually became the online Go-To yoga instructor she is today.
Adriene is quick to point out that she was NOT an instant sensation.
For three solid years, she consistently uploaded weekly yoga videos – that’s 156 videos- with no love in return.
What she got instead were crickets.
Silence.
No subscribers.
Zero engagement.
When she eventually reached 100 subscribers, it was a moment of great jubilation.
Undaunted, Adriene stayed committed and consistently upload high-quality yoga videos every single week without missing a beat until she got to the tipping point, three years later.
That’s well over 600 videos in eight (8) years. Impressive!
Seth Godin Too
This level of discipline and consistency also reminds me of my personal marketing hero – Seth Godin, one of the world’s leading marketers, and Mr. Purple Cow himself.
If you subscribe to Seth’s newsletter, you’ll get an email EVERY SINGLE DAY, bar none. I mean 365 days of the year.
I guess that’s why he is worth millions.
So, it bears repeating.
CONSISTENCY is the MOST powerful marketing tool you’ll ever possess.
And, it’s FREE.
By harnessing the power of consistency, you outcompete, outsmart and outsell your competitors even if they are more talented and have more resources.
Consistency doesn’t mean you are always winning; what it means is that you are always taking action and moving one step closer to your goals.
Here is the flip side, inconsistency makes you stale, out of touch, and out of mind.
Just imagine if Adriene had thrown up her hands in despair during those three barren years when nothing seemed to have been happening.
What if she got frustrated and exited YouTube altogether? She would have missed the huge wins she now enjoys.
How about Joe Girard?
Considered a marketing genius and title holder of the World’s Greatest Salesman (conferred by the prestigious Guinness Book of World Records), Joe Girard sold a whopping 13,001 vehicles over the span of 15 years,
Joe was a car salesman at a Chevrolet dealership in the United States between 1963 and 1978.
In 1973 alone he sold 1,425 vehicles; an average of 127 per month or 32 per week.
In his best month, he sold 174 vehicles, and on his best day 18.
Let those numbers sink in for a bit.
Did Joe sell to the rich and famous?
Nope.
Did he sell wholesale or in bulk?
Nope.
He sold the old-fashioned way. One vehicle at a time.
Amazing! Right?
Are you wondering how could ordinary Joe accomplish such an extraordinary feat?
The secret to his mega-success?
Maybe he had a large team.
Maybe he had a HUGE network.
Maybe he wooed prospects with expensive gifts.
None of that was true.
For sure, he worked hard and was likable – so were his peers.
But what did he do that was so superior that propelled him to a league of his own?
He harnessed his marketing superpower. The power of consistency.
For 10 years, month after month.
Year after year.
Joe stayed top of mind without missing a beat.
Joe’s extraordinary system
Here is what Joe did extraordinarily well:
- Every month he would send a personalized greeting card to his entire customer list
- At the beginning of the new year (in January) he would send a card saying: “I like you”
- Every February for Valentine’s Day he would send a card saying: “I like you.
Just imagine the time and labour it took to send out 13,000 cards to his customers each month.
Eventually, Joe had to hire an assistant.
Every card was handwritten, addressed, and sent through the postal system.
Joe was so successful that eventually, customers had to book an appointment in advance to see him.
His sales pipeline overflowed while other sales associates paced back and forth, praying and hoping for foot traffic.
What if:
Adriene had given up in frustration after three barren years when nothing was happening?
What if she had exited YouTube altogether?
She would have missed the huge wins she now experiences.
Would Seth have become a multi-millionaire and be recognized as one of the world’s top marketing influencers?
Would Joe have been awarded the prestigious title of World’s Greatest Salesman if they decided to throw in the towel when the going got rough and tough?
What if this group of standouts got up one day and ‘didn’t’ feel like it’ or got so ‘busy’ they slacked off or caved to someone who ticked them off?
You see, this is what truly separates the mediocre from the extraordinary.
Staying focused and remaining consistent with your marketing.
How about you? Share your thoughts.
Submitted By:
Dorothy Vernon-Brown helps business owners and entrepreneurs grab attention, convert leads faster and scale more quickly by using a proven end-to-end digital automation solution. She is the owner of AKB² Small Business Marketing
GLOBALIZATION: IS IT GAIN FOR THE SMALL BUSINESS?
What is Globalization?
Globalization is the act of connecting and integrating people, companies, and governments of different nations, through international trade and investments; powered by the use of technologies. However, is the small business making use of that trend?
Now is the time for small businesses to flourish by increasing efficiency at a low cost. Indian and Russian web-based small businesses see the value that Globalization brings and are daily reaching out to Canadian businesses offering their IT services at minimal fees. Some Canadian businesses have jumped on board and are outsourcing the automation of their processes, thus saving thousands of dollars per year and at the same time increasing efficiency in their day-to-day transactions. Other companies like Zoho.com and Pamten.com are establishing headquarters abroad, saving on overhead and manpower costs, and at the same time increasing their revenue streams by selling services, that are executed abroad, to businesses across North America.
We also find that International e-Commerce giants like AliExpress.com have emerged along with many others that are following in their footsteps. And as we observe what’s happening we find that this expansion of e-stores is now causing growth for other small businesses such as courier services and logistics industry, money exchange, and online payments gateways. Yes, Globalization has affected small businesses not only in Ontario but across the Globe!
Has your small business found its niche in this Globalized new economy?
CREATIVITY: IS IT CRUCIAL OR JUST A DIVIDEND
Is creativity crucial to small business success? Is it enough to hire creative workforce to design, plan, strategize and implement? What about businesses that adopt the traditional business approach? Do innovative business strategies define the success of a business?
Yes, in order for a small business to stand out in this competitive world of business it requires creativity and innovation. Whether a small business can hire inventive staff or not, creativity has to start in Leadership. When a business owner is not creative, the business becomes very habitual and resistant to change. In a world where change is happening every day, a business that lacks creativity will eventually expire.
Here are 3 goals to drive the creative business owner:
Be a leader in your industry
Competition is on the rise and business owners have to work hard to make their business stand out from other competitors. They find themselves working with an innovative mind rather than moving forward the traditional way. Any small business seeking to become leaders in their own industry finds it fundamental to be creative in their business approach.
Think outside the box
As a business owner myself, I found that anytime I confine myself to one business approach and restrict myself to that school of thought, my success curve will eventually decline. Business owners: stay up-to-date with the latest business trends and feed on the creativity that is presented by the different business experts.
Make creativity your business mark
Competitors are watching the progress of others in their industry; make creativity your mark. When that happens they will find themselves copying your ideas and business strategies and you automatically become the leader in that business trade.