and the last 7 things gorgeous – see previous blogs for others <3
1. Publish a Book
Talk about instant credibility! When you claim the title of “published author” or “Amazon bestselling author” people instantly pay more attention. It’s like you have a giant spotlight on you, because you must really know your stuff to have a published book.
While the actual writing and publishing takes time, published books can be used to draw attention to your business; they can help you earn speaking gigs; and they can get you in front of the media. All these avenues will help grow your business because you’ll be in front of more people than before you became a published author.
I have been in 3 compilations books so far and also wrote my own Goddess on Purpose Oracle book BUT I still am to publish my 1st book. It is written and in draft form – watch out for it soon.
2. STOP Complaining on Social Media
If you have a problem, especially a business-related problem, why go to social media to air your grievances? It’s bad enough when random friends talk smack about their work or their spouses; but complaining about a client or a type of work you’re doing certainly reflects poorly on your business.
Think of it this way…a prospect starts following you, interested in one of your group coaching programs. You encounter a tough client and start complaining on social media. How do you think your prospect will feel, knowing that even though you didn’t say this client’s name, you’re still frustrated with this person? Would you sign up with a coach who acted this way?
We all have tough days, but this would be an instant where you complain privately to your accountability partner to get it off your chest. Be picky about what you put on social media because you never know who’s watching.
I know YOU would never do this – but it just needs to be brought up just in case.
3. Deliver What You Promise
No matter what you’re delivering – a group coaching program, a product, or a one-to-one consultation – always be clear on what you’re promising and follow through. Clients who leave the program feeling like they were ripped off will not speak kindly of you AND they will likely request a refund.
When in doubt, overdeliver. Don’t give a few simple details in a product in the hopes that you’ll upsell them to a more expensive product. You’ll only trash your credibility and your unhappy customers will likely bash you on social media. Deliver enough so your customers tell their friends about you.
4. Ask for Referrals and Testimonials
Before you make an online purchase, do you look for reviews of the product? Most people want some reassurances that they won’t fall victim to a scam and that the product will do what it says in the description.
Testimonials do the same thing for those who offer services. Your current and former clients will be your best advocates because they have experienced your coaching style or gone through your classes. They can provide details and explain how you helped them. Their stories will help convince prospects that you are the best person to help.
Referrals are a bit different, in that current or former clients may give you the names of others in their circle who you should connect with. They may be potential new clients, JV partners, or maybe just a business associate or industry influencer who you can learn from. The idea is to spread your name far and wide, and asking for referrals will eventually lead you to people who can help grow your business. And don’t be shy about asking for a testimonial. Make sure on your checklist for events etc that you have the item: Ask for testimonials and even provide a form for them to fill out. Even better get the phone video on and record it there and then.
5. Create a Vision Board
Your business can’t grow unless you have specific goals in mind. Where do you want to be in 5 years? What’s your mission? What type of lifestyle do you want to live? These types of questions are typical goals many add to vision boards, which are a visual representation of what they want out of life.
Use online photos or magazine photos to create a board that speaks to you. Hang it in a prominent place in your office to remind yourself of WHY you work so hard every day. Make it a piece of art and hang it prominently instead of hiding it inside a drawer. Understanding your goals and what you want out of life will motivate you to work harder.
6. Create a Mindmap
Another way to visually represent your business goals and vision is to create a mindmap. Instead of using photos, mindmaps use simple bubbles (or other shapes) to connect your business goals with specific ideas or milestones. This representation shows how each of your goals are connected and how your business can grow as a result of meeting these goals.
Mindmaps are also much more specific, with each product title/idea laid out and linked to a specific milestone. If you prefer more detailed info, use a mindmap. If you like a more general representation of your desired life, use a vision board. There’s no right or wrong; just choose the one that inspires you the most.
7. STOP Making Excuses or Playing the Blame Game
Read any news story these days and you’ll notice that personal responsibility is severely lacking in society. It’s always someone else’s fault; rarely does the story portray someone who admits that they were in the wrong.
Instead of making excuses for why things don’t work or why your company isn’t bigger than someone else’s company, stop for a moment and take responsibility for the decision you have made. Unless you have a business partner who is a bully, you are solely responsible for your business success – or lack thereof.
It’s not time for a pity party; it’s time to regroup, learn from mistakes, and start making different decisions. Test out new marketing tactics, release a new program or class, and track the responses you receive. You might be surprised at how people respond and that could make you excited about your business again.
Freedom is being able to take your business in new directions. You don’t need permission or approval. Simply test new strategies and track those results. In the meantime, take care of yourself because a healthy and joy-filled leader will make better decisions and will take the calculated risks necessary to grow their business.
You have totally got this gorgeous and I hope these 21 things have helped you.
Join me live if you want to find out how to Step out and Shine with my live series. Big love.
