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The essential ingredient to creating Breakthroughs in your business year after year is to execute smart actions as rapidly as possible. Not just any action, but smart actions. Smart actions are ones that hit that sweet spot. They are revenue generating and create an impact.
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Most business gurus will tell you that you need a system for running and growing your business. Business growth doesn’t just happen. It is absolutely essential for solopreneurs to implement a system right from the start. The following activities are what Kelly has found to be essential daily activities.
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You know the old adage, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail”? A footnote to add to that might be, “And if you fail to have Plan B, you’re really in trouble.” The secret to keeping Plan B in mind, is that you don’t always know what it’s going to be. It may require you to think on your feet, be spontaneous, and even try something new. Nancy will share her strategy with you along with specific examples of how to navigate the waters of Plan B.
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All of us have blind spots. Maybe it’s in a relationship that’s having problems, maybe it’s around keeping in shape and healthy. But without a doubt most of us have blind spots in our businesses.
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Whatever stage of business development you’re currently in, you’re likely looking at simple ways you can improve your results. Making more sales, attracting ideal clients, up leveling your branding, hosting workshops, affording more team, growing your list and more. Follow these 3 simple steps that keep Kendall centered and focused and out of overwhelm.
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According the US Department of Commerce, more than 25% of businesses fail in the first year. More than 60% of businesses fail in the first five years. As a small business owner, I find those statistics pretty frightening. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like those statistics. Why DO most small businesses fail? There are four big but often overlooked reasons that so many small businesses fail.
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There is a difference between business training and customized business strategy – and as business owners we need both at every level of our business. Here is a fundamental concept that will help you understand the different kinds of information out there and the ways to take it all in.
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Here are 8 Breakthrough Steps! They are the essential ingredients to your six-figure or multi six-figure breakthrough.
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Step-by-step guides do work for some things. But can you make the fabled “seven figure income” by following someone else’s step-by-step plans or “secret” formula?
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One of the single biggest differences between how men and women run their businesses is in the area of boundaries. For the most part, guys rarely spend time worrying about the myriad of boundary issues that can easily (and often do!) consume a woman’s day. So what’s the cure? How do you strengthen your boundaries without coming across like a you-know-what? Here are 3 of Kendall's simplest steps for establishing and upholding boundaries.
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A few weeks ago, a woman named Anna freaked out on my Facebook page that I had referenced a certain well-known person as a brand.
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When I was teaching at an event recently, there seemed to be one theme cropping up again and again — how to plan your marketing activities. So, in this article I want to share with you my simple way for you to create your very own marketing calendar — an essential tool for any business owner.
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Running a business in the new economy means that most of us spend a big chunk of our workdays behind a computer screen. And as many can attest, the longer we work from home, the fuzzier the idea of looking presentable gets.
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Ah, the lure of the Internet. On the surface, it’s a dream come true. You can start a business out of your home selling your products and services everywhere and anywhere in the world without big marketing budgets or lots of advertising. Then you put your first website up and the dream comes crashing down with a big thud. It’s not nearly as easy as it first looks. Well, never fear — help is here! Read on for 3 tips to help you get more success with your Internet Marketing strategies.
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The average response rate on an advertising or marketing campaign is only 5 to 10%, and the close rate is even lower. So for your advertising to be effective, you need to do more than just put your ads out there. You have to have a sensible follow-up system that keeps your business present in potential clients’ minds while presenting you as someone they want to work with. This can be challenging, but having a good follow-up system makes it much easier.
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Business owners may find they need to fill their programs, find referral partners and make more money at the last minute. Cash flow has run short and they need money yesterday. Can you relate to this scenario? Perhaps it shows up in your life as feeling out of control, or in your business as feeling afraid and worried about making enough money each month.
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There are so many ways you can go about selling your business. You can sell it outright to a buyer or you can merge with another firm. In either case, finding the right buyer is key.
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Many of you business owners don’t realize that your business can be a great source for adding money to your retirement nest egg. Because of that, you don’t take the necessary steps and plans for selling your business as you near retirement. Talk about leaving money on the table! Selling your business before you retire is like falling into a boatload of cash with a lot of perks.
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As entrepreneurs, one of our most important duties is keeping our minds open to fresh moneymaking ideas. Holding regular brainstorm sessions can uncover fresh spins on our original ideas, and keep the passion alive—not only within ourselves, but for our customers and clients as well.
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Studies have confirmed that while there are many personality characteristics common to most entrepreneurs, a very independent spirit is the one trait shared by each and every one. Most small business owners would not give up the freedom that comes along with owning their business to work for someone else, even if it meant making more money. But there is a danger to being too independent.
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In the end, if you want to be able to work less, get more things done, and make sure the people you hire do things the way you want them to, you have to establish systems.
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When the spark of a new business idea tugs at you for weeks, one of the smartest ways to turn your inspiration into something real is to draft up a business plan.
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One of the biggest problems my clients tell me they have is getting more clients – or even getting their first client. The good news is, as with anything you do in your business, it’s so much easier if you have a system in place for doing that. Read on for a simple, 5-step, “Get More Clients System”.
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Most service providers and helping professionals, coaches, consultants, or change agents get into business by accident. Here are the four areas that I see self-help folks not helping themselves, and it is not only hurting their business it is killing an industry from its highest level of transformation.
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One of the most important ways to share your gifts and make a difference is get attention in a big way. I am expecting that if I can get your attention, I can give you some great advice; I can share some good stuff. I can help you start your movement; but none of it happens until you pay attention. And it all starts with your email subject line.
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Do you start beating yourself up when you read someone’s e-zine about how they only work 5 hours a week and are making multiple-six figures? Or how she has a 90% conversion rate with every sales call? Or when you notice someone pull off a six-figure launch with a preview call and few e-mails Then you go into what I call the “what are they doing that I’m not” scenario.
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High-end coaching programs can be one of the most richly rewarding ways to be of service to your clients. But there’s no question that these types of programs are high intensity, high commitment experiences. That’s why when difficulties arise, as they sometimes do, you may find yourself resisting addressing the issue at hand. Here are 3 of my best tips for maintaining your boundaries while handling challenging participants in high-level programs.
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Business is expensive. It takes investment, time, commitment, and effort. Do you know the business owner who won't go to the networking event because they have to pay for parking or breakfast or travel?
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If you want to create great income, and make a big impact, you need to learn how to reach a large number of people in your business. To reach people globally, however, it is very important to take advantage of online modes of communication. With so much information out there about social media and others avenues for reaching people online, however, where does one start? Start with where you are.
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Remember when Sally Field won the Oscar and squealed, "You like me. You really like me?" Truth: Many of you are doing that in your business and you need to stop. Read on for my top three tips on how to fast track to focusing on what matters so you can make more money.
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In today’s instant communication era, a personal letter sent through the mail is considered somewhat of an anomaly. But that’s why it’s so valuable. When you write a note by hand and the sentiment is personalized, it demonstrates to the recipient that they were important enough for you to pull out the stationary box and choose your words carefully. And as a business owner, sending a “thank you” note sends a very clear message: you are important and valued. Here are 5 easy steps to the perfect “thank you” note.
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Are you using stories in your business? Do you realize how incredibly powerfully your stories will attract new business and make profound connections with people?
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Many business professionals look at marketing completely on the surface. If your business tends to market by simply advertising, handing out business cards or flyers, it may be missing a few key ingredients. Along with getting word out about your business (the “Know” factor) your marketing should be focused on building relationships. When you focus your marketing on building relationships, you are taking the first step towards potential clients getting to know, like, and trust you.
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It’s often said that hindsight is 20/20, but it can turn into foresight when we start to learn from our mistakes and apply our new knowledge to future situations. So, how do you look at your failures and turn something negative into a positive? Let’s take a look…
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Many people want to grow a successful business that’s profitable. And often times, it’s some of the little details that end up making or breaking it. Here are the most common mistakes that can easily be corrected and make a difference to profits.
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One of the biggest roadblocks many women entrepreneurs have to growing their business is thinking they have to first invest in office space, a fancy website, a blog and more before they can be successful. It isn’t the trappings of business that make prospective clients take you seriously. Kendall would like to share with you simple budget-stretching tips to help you attract high-end clients, without breaking the bank.
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For a quick dose of inspiration and focus, read these 10 Business Success Tips to get you back on track and in the groove. Let these tips serve as a beacon for your business success. You’ll make more money, have staying power, and make the impact on the world you’re destined to make.
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Most successful entrepreneurs will tell you that to stay passionate about your work, you must infuse new life and purpose into your business on a daily basis. It’s not always about throwing out your old ways of doing things. Sometimes, all it takes are a few small changes. Read on for six ways you can revive your passion and purpose in your business.
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Your marketing should drive traffic (website visitors, people) to your website so that they can sign up for your list. Your list will allow you to leverage the “Know, Like and Trust Factor.”
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We’re all affected with the ‘Bright Shiny Object’ Syndrome in one way or another. The Information Age that we’re smack in the middle of sometimes offers almost TOO many things to work on. You may find yourself caught in the web of all the bright shiny opportunities you want to take advantage of. The problem is, these distract us, pull away our focus and dilute our efforts. How can you stay focused?
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Learn a 3-step process to move you from a small business preacher to a small business teacher.
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Learn the importance of investing in the overall success of your business and not making the mistake of being too cheap.
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Although it’s always been a part of the coaching and consulting business, I’ve seen the ‘Fake It’ model being used more and more. Here are just a few of things I’ve heard lately.
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Whether you’re driving a food truck or selling consulting services, your ability to stand out is what will keep you top of mind. Here are 3 tips to stay relevant, innovative, and #1 in your customers’ eyes.
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Not everybody has it easy, especially entrepreneurs. Revenue fluctuates, competition moves in, and sometimes you wonder if this whole gig is worth it. To add to the torture, you see “successful” people in your industry publicly enjoying their riches with pictures on Facebook of their expensive cars, vacations, shoes, purses… and even the holiest and most grounded of you feel that tinge of resentment from time to time. Come on… we can be honest here. It happens. But you deserve a whole lot more than tailspinning into negativity, so let me give you 3 tips to keep your business afloat, your attitude strong, and money coming into your business.
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Most women entrepreneurs see all of the different ways they can grow their business — teleseminars, high-end programs, groups, workshops, 1-on-1, info products, membership programs, telesummits, etc. — and feel overwhelmed. How can you decide exactly what to focus on first and which activities are best saved for later?
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Traveling for business can be a little unnerving for entrepreneurs at all levels. Most of us get so busy keeping shop that we forget to make the transition from personal traveler to professional traveler—and the result is wasted hours, money, and time. Below are a few tips on how to start traveling like a pro. Remember, as a business owner your time is MONEY!
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Every day I’m talking to women who think there is something that they are doing wrong. Or something that they just don’t know about in their business. Do you feel that way? Do you just wish you could find that one person who would give you the “secret sauce”, that answer that if you just implemented would give you the ultimate lifestyle and immediate clients and money that you SO crave. I get it. I’ve been there. For years, I just thought I wasn’t good enough to be successful. I hid under a guise of confusion and I listened to every free teleclass out there hoping to find the answer, that one thing that would make all the difference. Here’s what I learned.
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Can I tell you what breaks my heart? The number of women who are beginning business owners (with no list and very little client experience) who call me and tell me, “I just want to launch products and do large group programs today. In fact I have a product and I don’t know why it isn’t selling and I only had 3 people interested in my last group program.” Ladies, please know that just like any other business, there’s a model to the service business – meaning there’s a certain sequence of steps. If you follow these steps, you’ll succeed. If you don’t, you won’t get the numbers that you are looking for. Here’s the sequence of steps to launch products (and large group programs) in your service business (yes, breathe that sigh of relief).
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Lots of amazing women business owners tell me that in spite of lots of effort, they regularly struggle with how to get more clients. They are experienced experts, with creative ideas and a burning desire to make a go of their business. But they feel out of sync when it comes to marketing.
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You’ve heard the stories: the office manager quits her job and becomes a successful wedding cake decorator, or the talented dressmaker makes the leap and opens a hip downtown boutique. Transforming a hobby into a lucrative business may sound like an impossible dream, but thousands of people are getting paid for doing what they love by turning their passions into profitable enterprises. Before you wave goodbye to your day job, check out these five steps to help you turn your hobby into a profitable business.
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I believe the key to more clients, more in-come, and more time off, is making your business run like a well-oiled machine. Right now, you may be handling everything yourself, or perhaps delegating a little bit of it. The problem with that is your business is probably running YOU, as opposed to you running your business. And that probably means lots of stuff is falling through the cracks, which then means lost opportunities and fewer clients and less money coming in. How can you make your business run smoothly and avoid chaos?
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Every business is run on agreements. Some of the agreements are printed and signed, as in contracts with your clients, vendors, etc. These agreements can be felt, seen, read and discussed. But what isn’t always so obvious is the unspoken agreement we’re entering into. This is the one that, when everyone is in alignment, makes our business a joy to run. And, when not in harmony, it’s the type of agreement that can cause us hours of stress, unhappiness and messy situations that are difficult to navigate. I call these Soul Agreements. Here are 3 simple tips for aligning your business contracts with your Soul Agreements, so that both remain in integrity and you avoid broken contracts or hurt feelings on either side.
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Last week I wrote a blog post on the 3 numbers that you must track in your business. I received this comment: “Hey Monica, any advice for someone who’s already tracking revenue and expenses numbers, but it’s still hit or miss all the time? I used to avoid it, but now I’m avid about tracking it, yet my consistency doesn’t seem to be yielding the results I’d like.” – Angela Minelli. What an amazing question.
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I’m on the heels of the Be The Change Event with Suzanne Evans. I had the pleasure of speaking at a breakout session during her event. My breakout session was all about Money: how to make money decisions, stop avoiding the numbers and attract more of the green stuff into your life (this was all grounded in real strategy, not money magic). Here are some key numbers that will make getting to 10K or 100 K in a month SO much easier.
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We are supposed to be advanced. Didn't we burn bras and get liberated and say we were equal? So, what happened? We are supposed to be advanced. Didn't we burn bras and get liberated and say we were equal? So, what happened?
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Of the hundreds of business owners I’ve worked with personally over the years, I see many of them get carried away with the “image” of entrepreneurship. They want the big team, the latest software, new computers, a pretty office, and the like right off the bat. And many of them tell me they truly think they NEED them in order to make it. Well, as someone who started her own business with less than $20 in my bank account, I can tell you, it’s simply not true. So, if you’re on a tight budget (and who isn’t when they get started solo) then you need to what we call “BOOTSTRAP” your business.
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Every year, people like you start their business with lofty goals and stars in their eyes. Yet, every year thousands of businesses fail. In fact, business experts say that one in five businesses will fail within just a few years of launch. The actual numbers are probably quite a lot higher, since many open a small business on the internet and never even get it off the ground. Here are the top reasons why entrepreneurs fail.
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There is a nasty rumor in the business world. Coaches, healers, helpers, "well, 'those people' just aren't serious about business." I hear it all the time and there are some facts to back it up. Typically, helping professions earn less, focus less on numbers, and carry more debt.
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If you’re flooded with business ideas, but still aren’t sure how to turn them into a generous income, you’re not alone. Ideas are easy to come by, but the road you need to travel to create a solid business from them isn’t all that clear to most people.
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During the Six Figure Breakthrough Summit I interviewed 14 amazing women business owners. It was simply an incredible experience to be present to the wisdom and insight that these women possess. Here are 8 Breakthrough Steps that I’ve compiled from the event. They are the essential ingredients to your six-figure breakthrough. Here’s to Your Six Figure Year!
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We buy from people we know, like, and trust. So what are the factors behind getting this to work in your favor and using it to boost sales? Here are 5 tips to boost your credibility so you can enjoy increased sales and more opportunities!
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To create a successful (read: profitable) long-term business you need to follow a plan. Let me share with you today my 3-step process for creating that plan.
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So how do you decide if doing another training course is the right decision for you and your business? Follow these three steps and you’ll find that you’ll never jump into a training program again without having a plan.
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What makes one entrepreneur successful while the other one not-so-much? Chances are they’re making one (or all three) of these mistakes. What are these mistakes and how can you avoid them?
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As a solopreneur, you take a risk when you put your time and money into building your business. Sue tells you how to have predictable success and the first two steps you take to get that.
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Years ago, there was a question in my intake packet for new clients titled, “What is holding you back or slowing your progress?”, as it related to attracting all the clients they needed and having a full practice. Having worked with hundreds and hundreds of clients over the years, I’ve seen it all. Other than “no knowledge of marketing,” one thing seems to come up over and over again, and it happened again recently, with a brand new client. The client answered this: “Sometimes, the ‘Little Voice’ inside me asks, ‘Who needs my program anyway? This is basic information that I offer. People already know this stuff!’” This is so common, but in most every case, this is absolutely not accurate.
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I was very excited about how I ended 2010. I finally hit a financial milestone. However, I wasn’t an overnight success. I started this process in 2005 to transform my business from a one-woman freelance copywriter to president of a copywriting and marketing company. Here are five things that contributed to my success.
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Are you choosing to fail? I get all types of messages all the time from people facing the cycle of quitting. Recently, someone wrote me that they barely had the money for groceries and gas and certainly not coaching. I am sure they thought my response would be, "I understand."
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If you’ve been watching the news lately you may have bought into the idea that all is doom and gloom and that the end of the world as we know it is nigh, that business is bad and that no one has any money and that small business is doomed to failure and… well, you get the picture.
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Now is a perfect time to take an honest assessment of where you are now, where you want to be in one year, and how to get there. It’s time to get back to basics and profit from your business.
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Most of us start our business with passion and commitment, but over time our goals and ideologies change, sometimes leaving us feeling restless and unfulfilled. Answer these questions to see how committed you still are to your business.
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I’ve been studying a lot lately about the differences between the masculine and the feminine mind. For the most part, the party jokes you hear about how guys can only do one thing at a time are true, while a woman’s mind is easily able to bounce between twenty different topics in the space of only a couple of minutes. Which explains why men typically have a much easier time designating goals then planning the steps to reach those goals while women often struggle with competing thoughts and an overwhelm of ideas. Since every successful business is based on a clear set of goals and steps to accomplish those goals, what women need is an alternative way to plan for success that taps into their intuitive and creative spirit. Here are 3 creative steps you can use to plan your goals, action steps and successes for the year. My coaching program clients are typically shocked at how easily their plan comes together using this strategy.
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This is the time of year when you need to be spending lots of time on your small business strategy looking at what worked and what didn’t work in your business this year and what you will eliminate, add or change next year to really soar. It’s kind of like performing surgery, then creating a solid plan for renewal.
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The true lynchpin in my seven figure year: EVENTS! It was the most important thing I did. Read on for five important tips so that you can make the most of events.
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It's time to start thinking about a small business plan. Without the right help, strategies and systems most small business owners will remain stuck.
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We’ve all been there – that point where you need to create some instant cash flow. Perhaps you’ve got a car issue that needs to be fixed. Or you want to sign up for a really cool training program (ahem, hint, hint). Or maybe you just need a little extra cash to take your kids out to the new Harry Potter Movie and a nice lunch (or yourself). Oh and then there’s the dreaded credit card bill. Here are three suggestions that you can use literally roll out tomorrow to make some “fast” cash in your business. Put them in place quickly so that you can start to fill that wallet and create some room to concentrate on bigger and better for next year.
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According to the U.S. Government Small Business Administration's home page, about 50% of small businesses fail within the first five years. Whether you're a corporate refuge, a recent grad, or a mom re-entering the workforce, you'll want to avoid the pitfalls that others just starting out have experienced. You know you can be on the successful side of the statistic, and here are some mistakes you'll want to avoid.
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All the business building, marketing classes, social media spin offs, and mindset adjustments in the world will not help you make money or make a difference if you decide to let the obstacles be in control. Read on for tips on how you can overcome your obstacles and stay in control.
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I hung up the phone in frustration and a bit of sadness. I’d just had a conversation with a coach who was clearly unhappy with her business, wasn’t making the money she wanted, and SAID she needed help. But when it came to taking action, she balked.
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You have the power to take the rug off the elephant and create a new level of understanding and engagement. But how do you know when is the right time? And how do you use your newfound social media visibility to do this?
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Did you know that there is something you (if you’re like most of us) do EVERY DAY, possibly several times per hour, that can energetically undermine your business and possibly even kill it?
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It happens to all of us at some point: you get a customer or client who’s just not a good fit. So what do you do then?
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Here are 7 things you can – and should – implement in your business if you’re looking for success and sustainability.
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One of the best ways to quickly build your business, get high quality clients, and have it happen pretty easily, are referrals. Absolutely. Whether you get these from friends, family, or networking groups (the way I have for years), it is key to building a successful, sustainable business—provided you give exceptional service.
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Running a business means dealing with problems, just like any other part of your life. You’ll run into problems with technology, client problems, marketing problems, problems with your outsourced help or employees and life problems that take time and energy away from your business. How you deal with those problems will have a big impact on your success.
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A "blueprint" is a model or prototype -- most often used by architects to build homes and by car manufacturers to provide specs for model designs. You follow the steps -- 1, 2, 3, etc. without variation to get the same result repeatedly. This works for homes and car designs which start with the same raw materials and want to end with the exact same results. It does not work for businesses. Here's why.
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There are few things more frustrating than being stuck at a plateau — whether it’s a losing-weight plateau, a business-growth plateau or any other plateaus. So what do when you ARE stuck at a plateau, more specifically a business-growth one? Well the below 3 keys should put you on the right track to busting through.
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If you’ve been on an airplane, you’ve probably heard the airline stewardess give you the little safety spiel. How you buckle your seatbelt. What to do in case of a water landing. And what happens if those little oxygen masks drop down. What you’re supposed to do is put your mask on first then put the masks on your children. That order. You, then your kids. Why? Because if you pass out while trying to help your kids, you’ll help no one, least of all yourself and your kids. Which is the point of my article today. Are you putting your clients’ needs above your own?
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It’s summer. . .a time of school vacations; hazy, hot and humid weather; and, according to some, the slowest business season of the year. Not so here in Lakeville! We’re going gangbusters and there’s a few reasons why which you can easily use/adapt for your business.
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It’s been my experience that most entrepreneurs miss a very important step when it comes to the success of their businesses: they fail to plan. When you are your business it’s extremely easy to get caught up in putting out the latest fire or being distracted by the newest email. I’m going to show you how to step out of reactive energy and into business winning proactive energy in today's EnergyRICH® Insider Secret Article.
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I meet many entrepreneurs passionate about creating businesses around their exciting ideas, which is great, but too often they forget to do a little math to ensure profitability. After all, if you’re not a hobby or a non-profit, you need to make a profit to sustain your business. Don’t be afraid of the numbers because they can be really helpful in shaping your direction. Answering a few simple questions will help reveal the wisdom of your business idea, or uncover a flaw that you can rework to ensure success.
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There are times in your business when you need to make the tough decision to do what’s best for you, your business in the long term. What do you need to let go or add?
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If you’ve started a small business and you came out of the corporate world where detailed, endless paper work can sometimes take precedence over creativity and marketing, you may feel pressured to create an elaborate business plan. In fact traditional thinking is that you should never start a business without an elaborate business plan.
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Being the Go-To-Goddess means having enough confidence in what you offer and how you change people’s lives so that you are at the top of the list for other people to recommend you for clients, to the media, and to their colleagues for joint ventures. Getting to the Go-To-Goddess level means it gets easier to attract clients and opportunities. But to get there, you have to commit to 5 things.
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Learn what can YOU as a smaller business owner do to take advantage of the downward cycle of the economy.
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If you want to grow your business, there are 2 ways you can go about it. Slow and fast. So let’s talk about fast. Another way to view growing your business quickly is by taking a quantum leap, which basically means you leap frog ahead versus taking your growth one step at a time. If you want a quantum leap, how do you get one? Here are 3 steps to get you started.
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If you’re an entrepreneur, I seriously doubt you need any more ideas. Giving creativity tips to entrepreneurs is like walking into a crowded Starbuck’s and telling people coffee is great. It’s just a given that we’re all on the same page. But monetizing the creative ideas… this is where the struggle begins. Here are some tips for monetizing your creative ideas that can help you map out what steps to take immediately, and what to put on the back burner.
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Reality: According to the SBA, 63% of all small businesses fail in the first 5 years. OUCH! It sounds harsh, but it's true. And having been in business for over 6 years, I can tell you I've seen many colleagues go the way of "have to get a job" in order to put food on the table and take care of their families. And the sad part, many of those businesses could have succeeded.
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Whether or not you believe global warming could be the end of civilization, there are compelling reasons to take action to be environmentally friendly in your business.
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Just at the point when your frustration level is high because you’ve been working hard, doing all the “right” things and yet still not making the income you want, you may feel like quitting. But that may be just the point at which you’re about to reach the boiling point.
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We all have our ‘George’ days, when we feel like we’re getting nowhere, and we don’t know what to do about it. We feel miserable and unworthy, useless and helpless. But what happens when George decides to do the ‘opposite’?
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There’s this big myth out there... Once you reach “6 figures” (or beyond), all will be well. The truth is far from that. Revenue is great, profits are better. Learn about the 6 Figure Myth and how to discover the truth for your business.
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Entrepreneurs are famous for getting great ideas. Sometimes those ideas can be total breakthroughs, and other times they create paralyzing clutter. I’ve got 3 steps to share with you so you can activate your tipping point and enjoy success in any economy, despite any personal challenges, and regardless of how much time you have.
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If you are always trying to figure out what your potential clients want and make that your offer you will only be in the business of "figuring out" and you won't feel grounded, confident or connected to your passion and you won't have very many clients.
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The "4 Hour Work Week" book which came out a few years ago and a rash of "online gurus" have sparked a trend "How can I make as much money as possible while doing as little work as possible?" This line of thinking, conscious or not, leads to mass inconsistency in what's provided to their client base. So what should you do instead?
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So many coaches talk about "boundaries" and "holding your boundaries" with clients, team members, etc. in order to create the business/life of your dreams. Boundaries, to some, exist, in part, to create a certain perception of when and how much one works in their business as a symbol of perceived success. Not so for me. So what exactly are boundaries?
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One of the first recommendations you hear when you go into business is to write a business plan, but less than 1 in 5 solo professionals have one. In this article you'll find out why solopreneurs don't tend to have a formal plan, and what having one will do for you.
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Where are your teachable moments and how can you capture them to create a stronger bond with your ideal clients? Here is an exercise to assist you in capturing those teachable moments.
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Playing to your strengths in business is where your profits lie—but how do you focus on those strengths that will make you money? It’s a question that has baffled businesses for hundreds of years until economist and sociologist Vilfredo Pareto spotted a recurring pattern in his studies in 1906. From his observations he developed a potent business formula that empowers managers to improve the fortunes of their businesses.
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Do you ever find yourself confused about the thing you do versus the magic you offer? If so, you’re not alone. One of the biggest problems I see with my clients is their struggle to see the difference between what they do and the solution they offer. They think they are a coach or a healer or a teacher and they try to sign up clients leading with that. But that’s not where the magic is. People don’t come looking for a healer, teacher or coach. The reason people come to you is very simple.
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If your small business growth is stagnant and you’re feeling stuck, first of all take heart---we’ve all been there and you’re definitely in good company. That said, how long has this been going on? That’s the key question because if it’s been more than a short while this article about mindset is for you. It’s your wake up call.
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So, the entrepreneur that succeeds is the one that surrounds him or herself with good stuff - and that good stuff could only come one way. With removing the need to be right and get the credit we can all go places far beyond our wildest dreams if we let those two go.
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My friend shared with me that she often feel uncomfortable revealing how successful she's been over the last couple of years while so many professionals have a hard time getting just a few good clients to make ends meet. I thought she was right; often I feel the same way. Then I realized that my friend, myself, and many of my clients who are growing their businesses fast right now are following a specific formula that works!
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Think of *one thing* in your business right now that is frustrating you? Once you have that 'one thing' in mind, what is the next thought that pops into your head? Now read on to learn how to move forward.
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Decision making is an important part of everyday life, whether at home or in business. We’re constantly being challenged to make decisions, but why is it that the biggest and most important decisions are often presented to us when we are under pressure? When we are under stress we may be swayed into making a bad decision, and one that we regret for years to come. These five “own the moment” strategies will help you make clear-headed decisions, keeping you in control when it really matters.
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Why do so many small or solo businesses fail? Is it because the owners weren’t good enough at what they did? In most cases that’s just not true. Most of them were very skilled and talented in their area of expertise. So why do people continue to struggle without enough clients or income?
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Browse the business section of any bookstore, and an avalanche of titles promising a vast array of keys, secrets, and formulas to running a successful small business threatens to overwhelm you. When you stop to think about it, there are only three routes you can follow toward making more money.
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As 2010 looms just around the corner, I've been making space to open the flow for what's going to be my biggest year yet. Read this article for ways you can do the same.
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There’s a lot of talk right now about this being a bad time for business. However, those who have owned their own businesses for a while can tell you that any time can become a bad time for business – if you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having lost your enthusiasm. When the spring goes out of your step and you just can’t seem to muster up the energy and spirit required to keep your dream afloat, what can you do to turn the tide? We’ve got nine tips that just might help.
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You may have heard the phrase “playing to win or playing not to lose.” And while it sounds good to say “you’re playing to win” in your business, what exactly does that really mean?
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With the start of the New Year comes the knowledge that you need to be more organized, and have a plan! But for many solopreneurs knowing where to start can be quite daunting. Read on as I will share with you three basic steps to business planning success so that you can grow your online business!
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Creative entrepreneurs love the idea of “having a plan” but often struggle with how to make one, given the deluge of ideas they have spinning around in their head. The planning process can feel overwhelming and the end result is often a plan that still doesn’t answer the essential question, “What do I do FIRST?” If that sounds like you, then you’re in luck. As a highly creative entrepreneur I’ve figured out how to honor my creative, feminine spirit AND design a practical plan that will ensure I meet my financial goals.
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It's time to make business goals. How much time have you scheduled in for planning this year? If you want a successful business, you have to plan!
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Gurus really DO think differently. They have to. Sometimes they are seen as bigger than life even when they don't necessary FEEL that way. So they have to play some mind games with themselves. If you are in a bad frame of mind, try a few of these techniques to "Get Your Guru On" and shift yourself into greatness again.
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All experts, at one time or another, took time to become an expert in their field. And your expertise will be one of the most important components to the overall success of your business in the long-run. Here’s a very simple three-step formula to develop expertise in your field.
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Stop what you’re doing and take a good look at your business. Are you working hard doing marketing activities and trying to get clients but your bank account is still not reflecting your hard work? Are you dreaming about a solid 6-figure income but it always seems just out of reach? Its time to develop a model that will take your clients through a series of strategic purchases so they don’t just buy from you once and disappear. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to follow to create your Business Design.
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Successful businesses have systems and processes which result in prospects and clients being treated the same way every day, every encounter regardless of what you're doing. Here are a few simple systems/processes that you can put in place this week which will make a huge difference in the experience for your prospects and clients.
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In business, there needs to be a systematic way to grow your income and your money mountain. Before you start creating, developing, and running the marketing rat race, slow down and start here!
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So you just dropped a tidy sum to attend a seminar or some other three-day event. Now it's over and you're exhausted. Your client work is backed up. You have a fistful of business cards to connect with. And your family would like some face time. Time to get back into the swing of life, right? Wrong.
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Have you ever embarked on a long car journey, and suddenly realized that you have no idea where you are going? You drift, you meander, and you can’t figure out how to reach your final destination. Running a business without a strategic plan is like getting lost on a road trip. Your business fortunes should not be left to chance.
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As a business owner, business consultant, and business professor, I have been asked numerous times for the secrets of recession proof businesses. Recession proof businesses that I work with all seem to have one thing in common: recession proof business owners. Here are the top 5 vital qualities of recession proof businesses and their owners.
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No matter how desperate for customers you are, you must get that under control. People will sense desperation and either run from you or try and take advantage of you. Neither is all that good for you (either your business or your psyche). So what can you do? Here are 3 tips to help you stay strong no matter what's going on in your business.
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I've been knee deep in online business for years now - coming up on ten years actually - and despite all the great new things that arise in the online world it all comes back to this simple formula.
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As you're growing your business, your own personal level of confidence and passion comes into play on a number of levels. When you're confident in your business and you're working on a project you love, your clients can tell. In fact, they feed from your positive energy and learn to trust you as a resource. That's why choosing the right path and taking the right steps along the way can tremendously improve your business – and your bottom line. Here's how.
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Certainly, for some, this has been a tough time. But for most of us, the opportunity to succeed in our business is as great now as ever. All you need is to know is how to do “the right things, right.” How can I be so certain? Because I’m experiencing the best year, ever
But rather than keep what we’re doing to achieve these kinds of results a secret, I prefer to share a few tips with you as to exactly WHAT we’re doing that’s working in this economy.
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Here’s a simple checklist of what every business owner must put into place to quickly create 6-figures. Remember what I always say: it’s easier to make MORE money than it is to make less, once you know the secrets!
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Savvy entrepreneurs know that a recession is a time of change and a chance to retrench. While others take refuge from the storm, these entrepreneurs stand firm and meet the recession head on, confident in their products or services. In fact, many large, successful corporations including Burger King and Hewlett Packard entered the marketplace during turbulent times. These companies recognized a change in consumer needs and responded accordingly. Here's how you can spot an opportunity and act on it during a recession.
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Did you know your first Energy Point can be found in your body at the base of your spine? This is the area where you house all of your 'security' energy. It is literally about being supported in life. So it makes sense that this will pop up when building a business, right?
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An online friend of mine - someone met at a workshop years ago and we've casually kept in touch - direct messaged me on Twitter the other day to ask which of two upcoming workshops she should attend as she "needs a boost this year". This made me think "when should you go to conferences and workshops?"
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Most businesses start out with just one or two products or services. Maybe you’re selling services like coaching, event planning, personal training, web design or massage therapy, or maybe it’s an online info product like an e-book or course. Whatever it is, before long you find yourself selling time for money with your income limited by how many hours there are in the day.
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Recently I offered a free tele-class called The 10 Profound Breakthroughs That Created My 6-Figure Business. It was the first time I truly opened up about the underlying breakthroughs that have been responsible for my business success and that I’ve passed on to my small business clients.
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If you own a small or solo business or practice, or are an independent service professional here are some great business building ideas for you.
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Whether it's pride or just human nature that keeps professionals from asking for help sooner, it's just plain silly to keep "toughing it out" when there are so many strategies for generating new business fast.
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While a rosier global economic forecast may still be a few months away, smart entrepreneurs are taking control of their cash flow now, and wisely implementing simple strategies to increase how much they make, AND, how much they keep. Here are five simple tips to help you get a handle on your cash flow now, so you’re sitting pretty in the “money driver’s seat.”
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Your biggest client decides to quit working with you, for no apparent reason, leaving you with a huge income hole to fill. Your shopping cart bills your customers three times for a single purchase. Your virtual assistant decides to fly off for a spur-of-the-moment week away, leaving you with hours of admin nightmare to deal with.
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Think of your business model as the design of your various services, info products and programs. Too many entrepreneurs offer a bunch of “stuff” without any real thought as to how each offer will best leverage their time, plus create the maximum amount of revenue.
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The latest rage among internet or online-focused businesses is the high level (over $10,000/year) coaching or mentoring program frequently referred to as "Gold", "Platinum" or "Diamond" programs - it seems that almost everyone has their version of one. These can be amazing programs. However, there are several things you need to consider before joining a high level program.
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In a time when information - good and bad - surrounds us and we're hit (it actually feels like I'm being hit sometimes) with thousands of marketing messages every day around what we should do with our business, it's no wonder you're confused about the best way to get where you're going.
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Yes the government is doing crazy things. Yes we have pirates and pig flu and everything else. But you shouldn’t be panicking because it’s very possible for us to not just survive but thrive.
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"Target fixation" is being SO incredibly focused on your goal (your target) that you fail to see all the other opportunities around you. Learn how to overcome this fixation.
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You know what really makes me MAD? When I see someone acting like a bigshot with no substance behind them, asking you to pay them handsomely to teach you something that they themselves have NEVER done. Here are five questions you should ask before investing heavily in anyone's products, programs, coaching, or workshops.
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Despite the economy my business has never been stronger. Same is true with my clients, too. You might even be saying, “It’s easy for you Kendall, you already HAVE a 7-figure business” and think that the money just keeps rolling in for me. But imagine how much more money, joy and gratitude you could be creating in your life and business by following these four SIMPLE steps.
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Times are tough. There's no doubt about it. That said, I had my best month ever in March and quarter 1 was my best quarter ever. In fact, I'm on target to surpass my 2008 revenue by June 30th. I don't tell you that to brag, I tell you so that you can learn from what I'm doing, which, by the way, is almost the exact opposite of what I'm seeing many others doing. So what's my secret?
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Highs and lows in business. What is your timeline and how does it affect the running of your business?
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What exactly IS "Strategic Implementation"? And how can you achieve it?
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The secret to success for entrepreneurs and small business owners is not another brilliant marketing idea. There's a better place to start first. The real secret to success is tapping into and using your intuition in your business on a consistent basis. You might be wondering... Can this really be true?
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For the past few Thursday evenings millions of Americans were glued to their TV tubes watching Donald Trump’s reality show “The Apprentice” and speculating who will be fired next. Regardless of your overall thoughts of the show, you can’t argue the fact that at times it delivered great insights into human behavior, business success principles and marketing savvy!
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Do you sometimes wonder what's the point of setting intentions? Some entrepreneurs set goals and intentions with joy; but others sabotage their business success by subconsciously waiting for their intentions to bomb. Which is it for you?
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Your recognition of and gratitude for the power of love creates more abundance in your business and life. This fuels the fountain of potential.
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Is there a part of your business that's on hold because you're just doing what you always do? Are you so caught up in answering emails, trying to get clients, picking up the dry cleaning, and getting dinner on the table (or at least down your throat) that you've lost all sense of purpose? Or maybe the idea of having goals, doing something different, getting your business to another place just feels, well, exhausting and, anyway, if you really went after your dreams, you'd probably be disappointed.
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Undoubtedly, any business can slip into a slow period. BUT...the trick is to know WHAT to do to get your business back on track as quickly as possible and better yet, HOW to avoid slipping into a slow spot in it in the first place. Here are 5 tips I personally use to coach my clients out of slow and into "go!"
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If you own a small or solo business or practice, or are an independent service professional here are some great business building ideas for you.
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I don't know about you, but as I look around I still see people jammed into shopping malls and spending, spending, spending. Compared with the rest of the world, we really have nothing to complain about. And for you reading this article, this recession will only be what YOU make of it. Here are three steps to turning this "lemon" of a recession into some entrepreneurial lemonade.
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Here are some basic tips that will help you make building a home-based business a reality.
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How can changing you perspective up your profits? It's easy.
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There are many parts to building a successful entrepreneur business, but it first and foremost begins with understanding and remembering why you do the work you do. Then it's about clearly understanding who you serve, what their major struggles are, and how what you offer will make their life better. Finally, it's about reaching your ideal client in a way that has them eager to work with you. But most importantly, it's about managing your energy through it all.
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Have things slowed down for your business now that the warmer months are upon us and people are on vacation or otherwise taking a break from their usual routines? Use this downtime to focus on getting your business ready to rock for the fall by implementing some of these 8 ideas.
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Learn what it means to be a Solo Entrepreneur.
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Writing a business plan for your Solo Entrepreneur business doesn't have to be a daunting project. If you can answer 10 straightforward questions about your business, you can be ready to go.
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Learn some of the obstacles that stop business owners from reaching their Biggest Vision.
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Opening a new business? Get a head start by heeding these time-tested success factors -- doubly important for the Solo Entrepreneur!
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A recent study of 29,000 business startups noted that 26,000 of them failed. Of those failures, 67% had no written business plan. Think that's a coincidence?
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Some people make decisions without any difficulty, while others struggle. Are you having trouble making a decision? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the choices you have, and aren't sure how to pick just one? No matter how big or small those decisions might be, here's how you can make good, strategic decisions.
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