by Karen Dodd
In last week's marketing assignment I asked you to first, focus on your Vision for yourself and your business. I asked you to consider:
why you started your business in the first place
if you wanted to work more on your business than in it, and
whether you want to remain as a "solo-preneur" or if you want expand and add staff
Would it surprise you to know that everything you do in your business -- from what value you provide your clients, to what you charge, what kind of hours you work, and what types of clients you attract -- all comes down to what LEGACY you are committed to creating?
Determining your Purpose and turning it into your business, should become your Mission.Your mission and how you plan to take that to the marketplace and serve, is what determines who you are, what you contribute, and what you will eventually be known for when you leave this earth.
Regardless of whether you are a photographer, an interior designer, a health and nutrition expert...you name it, it isn't about what you do that counts to your clients -- it's about the transformation that you help them produce. Put another way, it's not the process of what you do that causes a prospective client to invest in your product or service -- it's the results they believe they will achieve by working with you -- that determines your value in the marketplace.By focusing on communicating your transformational value to your prospect, you can actually work less and charge more.
Very often, when I start mentoring a client, they feel that in order to make more income, they either have to work harder or -- that they need to add more "stuff" to their product offering, in order to justify charging more. Or, they simply deduce that they need more paying clients to bring in more revenue.
Instead of trying to attract a greater volume of clients, what if you could attract less clients who each represent greater value to your business? By being clear on your Mission and your Transformational Value, you can do exactly that. But, you have to stop selling what you do!
By working with less clients who pay you more, you are accomplishing a number of significant things -- for both yourself and your clients. Let's just explore that.
1. When you work less hours with less clients, you can afford to serve them more effectively. If you believe that your contribution is to serve others (which I do), this premise allows you to be more effective in transforming the lives of those you work with. You will find yourself more able to be fully present, less stressed and more "intimate" in your work with them. You can afford to provide much more hands-on support when you serve less people.
2. If you build your value on higher-priced products/services, you can afford to stay in the game long enough to truly be of service. How would you feel if you knew you were providing really good value but couldn't afford to stay in business because you weren't charging enough? Then one day, someone (many people) call, only to find you've gone out of business? Or worse, you've become a burned-out wreck! You can't serve others if you don't serve yourself and your needs first.
3. By charging more for better results, you actually develop client loyalty. The more "skin in the game" they have, the more likely it is they will continue to buy from you over and over. They will also provide you with more high-quality referrals because they can point to tangible changes for which you were responsible. Think about it: if they know your product/service produces results, why would they want to switch to investing in an unknown?
Understand that people only part with their money to avoid pain, or achieve gain. If you focus more on communicating how working with you will accomplish that, you will find yourself doing less pursuing and more attracting. After all, there is nothing less attractive than the stereo-typical concept of a "pushy salesperson," right? When you pursue a prospective client, they only have two options. First, they resist or run the other way (or stall on making a decision), or second, they submit...often not very enthusiastically.
By focusing on a "transformational business model," you learn how to communicate the value of moving ahead with you, in a true and "holistic" way. Using heart-centered principles, you can help your prospect see how not moving ahead, affects all aspects of their life -- not just what your product or service directly addresses.
Your mentoring assignment -- should you choose to accept it:
What is your Mission? What Legacy do you wish to create? By getting really clear on this, you are better able to answer the next question, which is....
What is your Transformational Value? Write out exactly what results someone will achieve by working with you or purchasing your products. Be sure to keep you and what you do, out of the equation. This is all about them! What will their life look like when they avoid the pain or achieve the gain?
Write out exactly what you will say the next time someone asks, "What does it cost to work with you (buy your product, etc.)?"
Tip: If you are not 100% prepared for this question -- or you give them a number right up front, you may as well kiss the prospect goodbye! Abraham Lincoln would spend 2 hours sharpening his axe and one hour cutting down the tree. Knowing how to communicate value -- versus quoting your price -- will be one of the most significant things you will do in your business. It will allow you to work less, attract the right clients, and take your business -- and your income -- to the next BIG level!
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these tips? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy to build your business and attract your ideal clients. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from moms to millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Vision + Consistency = Tons of Clients!
by Karen Dodd
Why do you think that top business consultants advise you to build your new business as if you were going to sell it? To answer that, let me share how I learned this the hard way, with the very first business I ever owned.
Back in the early 80's, I had the tremendous good fortune to have been invited to build a small food outlet in a new and trendy area of Vancouver called Granville Island. The concept of having a public market on a man-made island which had previously been a foundry, was the beginning of moving consumers from mega grocery chains, back to shopping at Ma & Pop-type shops. My shop was profitable from day one -- which was quite a feat -- as at that time, you expected to be two to five years into your business before it was in the black.
I remember as if it was yesterday, a conversation with my accountant right after he had gone over my balance sheet. I was a little nervous because although I knew we had really good cash flow, I actually had no idea if I was making money or not. He put down my paperwork, took off his glasses and said to me, "Okay, now's the time to dump it." I was horrified! I erroneously thought I had had a really bad year. However, he went on to explain that this was the very best position I could have been in and that it was the ideal time to sell.
But do you know what? The business was my baby -- I had no idea what I would do if I sold it -- and I told him so. Want to know what he said? "Who cares? Take the money, go chill out on a beach and figure out what you want to do next."
The end result is that I didn't sell that business, and it languished for another two or three years, at which point I was burned out and needed to sell it -- and didn't get nearly the price that I would have if I'd sold earlier on. Why do you think I procrastinated on selling and moving ahead? Lack of VISION. If I had been building that business, knowing I was going to sell it at it's most successful point, I would have been much more aggressive in developing my marketing, keeping it in a highly profitable position -- and I would have had a succession plan for myself.
Even if you are in a highly personal consulting-type business, where you are really the business, always be thinking -- what would I be doing in my business if I was expecting to be bought over by a successful company. Besides having that VISION, the second part of the equation is how are you going to build the client-base or goodwill that will become your best asset? Which brings me back to the business consultant I talked to earlier this week.
As was my experience with my retail store, he had found himself in the fortunate position of never having to market his business. In his case, he worked solely by referral and up until a year ago, actually had potential business slipping through his fingers because he was too busy to follow up. In fact, he brought a partner in for that very reason. Nice problem to have, for sure.
Well, guess what happened? The economy changed and people started to pull in their horns. Although he is still doing very well, relative to his competitors, he now realizes that he needs to start marketing -- and he's starting from scratch at the worst possible time -- when he needs clients! It's a bit like going to the bank for a line of credit when you need it, rather than planning in advance and putting it in place when you don't actually require the money.
The sad part is that this gentleman's situation is not unique. In fact, I would say it's pretty well the norm. Most solo-entrepreneurs and professionals spend so much time working at their craft and doing what they do well, that they typically don't give marketing much thought. Sometimes they differentiate marketing their business, from sales or advertising. However, the reality today is that marketing is all of those things -- and in order to avoid going the well when it's dry, you simply must have a marketing system that operates automatically.
The good news, is that your marketing system can be put in place fairly quickly and with relatively little expense. Here's your marketing assignment for your own business or practice:
1. Focus on your vision for yourself and your business. Why did you start your business in the first place? Over time, do you want to work more on your business than in it? Do you want to stay as a sole practitioner or do you want to expand and add staff? No matter the answer, pretend that you're going to one day be bought out by a hugely successful organization, and build with that in mind.
2. Using your answers from the first question, determine what you need to do to add to or change your product mix. For example, if you want to stay a solo-entrepreneur (without expanding locations or adding staff), what products or services could you develop that would add more value to your customers? Focus on knowledge and expertise that you already have, rather than reinventing the wheel. One of my clients who owns a wine-making store decided to rent out his luxurious RV and designed driving routes his customers needed to take wine-tours. It worked phenomenally well!
3. Reconnect with your clients and prospects. Take advantage of high-tech tools to become high-touch -- things like a weekly or bi-weekly ezine, blog or a simple email that provides tips and tools that your market would find helpful. Save customers the time and money they would otherwise have to spend to get that information for themselves. If you're not sure what they would find valuable, use a survey service like Survey Monkey (it's fre*e and easy to use) to find out. Just be sure to keep it to no more than five or six well thought out questions that only takes a couple of minutes to complete. Alternatively, send an email asking, "What is the #1 challenge that you are experiencing in your business today?" My favorite is: "If I could give you one gift that would help you in your business today, what would it be?"
4. Using the information gleaned from Question 3, figure out what your prospects and clients would willingly pay for, if you provided it to them? Could you package your expertise into an E-book, home study system or a teleclass? These can be priced anywhere from a low of $49 to several hundred or thousands of dollars. The key here is that you're creating passive and leveraged streams of income, without investing dollars in business expansion, ie. having a second business location.
5. Create an irresistible fre*e offer. Could you give away a Special Report, a CD of you being interviewed, or a fre*e teleclass -- all to do with what you do and how learning this information from you, can further your clients' business success? Get creative. You could even put a 2-minute audio or video on your website or in an email, enticing them to grab your fre*e offer.
6. Use the "buddy system." Many professionals that I work with, fill their client funnel by doing monthly or quarterly Client Appreciation Seminars. Typically, you'd provide breakfast or lunch and bring in guest speakers (many of whom will do it no charge for the exposure). I've had clients who have invited their customers for cooking demos, how to improve your golf swing, or travel presentations. To really capitalize on this opportunity, make it clear in the invitation that they are to bring a friend or colleague as a guest. Then when you call to follow up, ask for their friend's name and address so you can send them a personal invitation.
We all know that jet pilots don't actually sit there and steer the plane for the eight or nine hours it takes to cross the Atlantic. Instead, the plane is on auto-pilot and the pilot and co-pilot monitor their progress and make course corrections from time to time.
Don't wait until your "plane-full" of clients runs off course! Do you have the vision for your business and know exactly how you're going to keep a steady stream of ideal clients walking through your door? By taking this assignment seriously and starting to think of these things now, your ideas will become the fuel that keeps your marketing machine running automatically.
Be sure to read next week's In Focus: Success & Marketing Highlights to discover how to attract more clients purposefully -- eliminating the feast or famine that tends to plague solo entrepreneurs.
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these tips? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy to build your business and attract your ideal clients. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from moms to millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Why do you think that top business consultants advise you to build your new business as if you were going to sell it? To answer that, let me share how I learned this the hard way, with the very first business I ever owned.
Back in the early 80's, I had the tremendous good fortune to have been invited to build a small food outlet in a new and trendy area of Vancouver called Granville Island. The concept of having a public market on a man-made island which had previously been a foundry, was the beginning of moving consumers from mega grocery chains, back to shopping at Ma & Pop-type shops. My shop was profitable from day one -- which was quite a feat -- as at that time, you expected to be two to five years into your business before it was in the black.
I remember as if it was yesterday, a conversation with my accountant right after he had gone over my balance sheet. I was a little nervous because although I knew we had really good cash flow, I actually had no idea if I was making money or not. He put down my paperwork, took off his glasses and said to me, "Okay, now's the time to dump it." I was horrified! I erroneously thought I had had a really bad year. However, he went on to explain that this was the very best position I could have been in and that it was the ideal time to sell.
But do you know what? The business was my baby -- I had no idea what I would do if I sold it -- and I told him so. Want to know what he said? "Who cares? Take the money, go chill out on a beach and figure out what you want to do next."
The end result is that I didn't sell that business, and it languished for another two or three years, at which point I was burned out and needed to sell it -- and didn't get nearly the price that I would have if I'd sold earlier on. Why do you think I procrastinated on selling and moving ahead? Lack of VISION. If I had been building that business, knowing I was going to sell it at it's most successful point, I would have been much more aggressive in developing my marketing, keeping it in a highly profitable position -- and I would have had a succession plan for myself.
Even if you are in a highly personal consulting-type business, where you are really the business, always be thinking -- what would I be doing in my business if I was expecting to be bought over by a successful company. Besides having that VISION, the second part of the equation is how are you going to build the client-base or goodwill that will become your best asset? Which brings me back to the business consultant I talked to earlier this week.
As was my experience with my retail store, he had found himself in the fortunate position of never having to market his business. In his case, he worked solely by referral and up until a year ago, actually had potential business slipping through his fingers because he was too busy to follow up. In fact, he brought a partner in for that very reason. Nice problem to have, for sure.
Well, guess what happened? The economy changed and people started to pull in their horns. Although he is still doing very well, relative to his competitors, he now realizes that he needs to start marketing -- and he's starting from scratch at the worst possible time -- when he needs clients! It's a bit like going to the bank for a line of credit when you need it, rather than planning in advance and putting it in place when you don't actually require the money.
The sad part is that this gentleman's situation is not unique. In fact, I would say it's pretty well the norm. Most solo-entrepreneurs and professionals spend so much time working at their craft and doing what they do well, that they typically don't give marketing much thought. Sometimes they differentiate marketing their business, from sales or advertising. However, the reality today is that marketing is all of those things -- and in order to avoid going the well when it's dry, you simply must have a marketing system that operates automatically.
The good news, is that your marketing system can be put in place fairly quickly and with relatively little expense. Here's your marketing assignment for your own business or practice:
1. Focus on your vision for yourself and your business. Why did you start your business in the first place? Over time, do you want to work more on your business than in it? Do you want to stay as a sole practitioner or do you want to expand and add staff? No matter the answer, pretend that you're going to one day be bought out by a hugely successful organization, and build with that in mind.
2. Using your answers from the first question, determine what you need to do to add to or change your product mix. For example, if you want to stay a solo-entrepreneur (without expanding locations or adding staff), what products or services could you develop that would add more value to your customers? Focus on knowledge and expertise that you already have, rather than reinventing the wheel. One of my clients who owns a wine-making store decided to rent out his luxurious RV and designed driving routes his customers needed to take wine-tours. It worked phenomenally well!
3. Reconnect with your clients and prospects. Take advantage of high-tech tools to become high-touch -- things like a weekly or bi-weekly ezine, blog or a simple email that provides tips and tools that your market would find helpful. Save customers the time and money they would otherwise have to spend to get that information for themselves. If you're not sure what they would find valuable, use a survey service like Survey Monkey (it's fre*e and easy to use) to find out. Just be sure to keep it to no more than five or six well thought out questions that only takes a couple of minutes to complete. Alternatively, send an email asking, "What is the #1 challenge that you are experiencing in your business today?" My favorite is: "If I could give you one gift that would help you in your business today, what would it be?"
4. Using the information gleaned from Question 3, figure out what your prospects and clients would willingly pay for, if you provided it to them? Could you package your expertise into an E-book, home study system or a teleclass? These can be priced anywhere from a low of $49 to several hundred or thousands of dollars. The key here is that you're creating passive and leveraged streams of income, without investing dollars in business expansion, ie. having a second business location.
5. Create an irresistible fre*e offer. Could you give away a Special Report, a CD of you being interviewed, or a fre*e teleclass -- all to do with what you do and how learning this information from you, can further your clients' business success? Get creative. You could even put a 2-minute audio or video on your website or in an email, enticing them to grab your fre*e offer.
6. Use the "buddy system." Many professionals that I work with, fill their client funnel by doing monthly or quarterly Client Appreciation Seminars. Typically, you'd provide breakfast or lunch and bring in guest speakers (many of whom will do it no charge for the exposure). I've had clients who have invited their customers for cooking demos, how to improve your golf swing, or travel presentations. To really capitalize on this opportunity, make it clear in the invitation that they are to bring a friend or colleague as a guest. Then when you call to follow up, ask for their friend's name and address so you can send them a personal invitation.
We all know that jet pilots don't actually sit there and steer the plane for the eight or nine hours it takes to cross the Atlantic. Instead, the plane is on auto-pilot and the pilot and co-pilot monitor their progress and make course corrections from time to time.
Don't wait until your "plane-full" of clients runs off course! Do you have the vision for your business and know exactly how you're going to keep a steady stream of ideal clients walking through your door? By taking this assignment seriously and starting to think of these things now, your ideas will become the fuel that keeps your marketing machine running automatically.
Be sure to read next week's In Focus: Success & Marketing Highlights to discover how to attract more clients purposefully -- eliminating the feast or famine that tends to plague solo entrepreneurs.
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these tips? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy to build your business and attract your ideal clients. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from moms to millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
The Magic of Mentorship
by Karen Dodd
What do you think Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson, Kim and Robert Kiyosaki and Anne McKevitt all have in common?
They give enormous amounts of credit for their success, not just to their own willingness to take action, but to important people who mentored them in their respective careers. Some of these individuals were fortunate that someone took a sincere interest in them and simply took them under their wings. However, as time went on and they were struggling to make a name for themselves, they all -- without exception -- hired experts who could teach them the important aspects of life and business, that they had not yet learned. Had they not done that, do you think we'd know their names today?
Recently I listened to a fascinating interview with rags-to-riches billionaire Anne McKevitt, a woman that many, if not most would be unfamiliar with. In relating her story and where she (correctly) predicted the world economy would be today, she shared some very interesting principles that I think apply to all of us, whether we're famous or not.
First, it appears that the vast majority of people don't understand that failure is part of the process of success. We've all heard those cliches about failing your way to the top, but I think that has become such a commonly heard phrase, that we no longer take it seriously. We've kind of become de-sensitized to the reality and lessons of failing. Show me someone who says they've never failed, and I'll show you a fibber or a non-risk taker.
The good news about failing is that when you hit rock bottom, you realize that you actually have the power to make dramatic changes. By taking responsibility, coupled with intelligent action, you can climb back up relatively quickly. However, when you hit rock bottom -- or just a bump in the road -- it can be difficult to recover if you're not sure what got you there in the first place.
Having been on both sides of the fence -- being mentored and mentoring others -- I see the biggest challenge for people who are considering a mentor, to be the cost versus benefit decision. Or, being the persistent people that we entrepreneurs are, we figure we can just dust ourselves off and battle through it ourselves. But is that productive? Is it FUN?
Sometimes we're so enmeshed in our own situation that it is difficult to see the forest for the trees. As one of my own coaches told me recently, it is much easier for an outsider to see our situation from 30,000 feet, than ourselves, who are right in the thick of things. Add to that, their expertise and ideas that you might not even have thought of, and there can be tremendous progress made in a relatively short period of time by having a mentor.
One of the biggest benefits that McKevitt talked about with her personal experience of mentoring, is the ability to go from ladder-climbing to leaping. Often, we have been conditioned by parents and people who care about us to take little baby steps and to plod along slowly but steadily. I know I can relate to that, having had parents who went through the Great Depression.
By taking a step back from that cautionary advice -- and with the help of an expert -- you may determine that not only have you been slowly ladder-climbing, but you might actually be on the wrong ladder! I don't know about you, but I would rather find that out sooner rather than later, so that I could stop self-sabotaging and step more easily into my greatness.
There are several ways to benefit from the expertise of a mentor, some of which won't cost you a penny:
1. Start or join a mastermind group. Having the support of like-minded people who can look at your ideas with fresh eyes can be tremendously helpful. The caveat is to make sure it is a strong group with structure, that meets often and has a leader. Otherwise, they tend to turn into coffee klatches and can be real time-wasters. You don't need to meet in person. In fact, there are many good mastermind groups online where you can "meet" on a weekly or monthly basis. My own VIP Mentorship group is one of them and you can try it out for 2 months for fre*e.
2. Hire a coach or mentor that is affordable for your budget. Instead of thinking about what working with a mentor will "cost", look at the value that you will derive. For example, determine what you get paid on an hourly basis (or per sale) for what you do. Then look at what one good idea from a mentor would net you in increased sales or billable hours. You might not have budgeted for a coach but hopefully you plan every year for annual growth in your business. Implementing your business mentor's ideas can significantly add to your bottom-line. Using myself as an example, I doubled my client base in 8 months, solely from a coaching program I invested in last November. Do you think that was worth it? You bet -- plus now I can share those money-making ideas with my clients!
3. Work with a mentor by way of their home-study courses or small group teleclasses. These are always much less expensive, you can get their expertise on a very targeted basis, and you can pace yourself both time and investment wise. This is actually how I started working with both my coaches. It also gives you a really good flavor for how they work and whether their style of mentoring works for you.
In all cases, when engaging a mentor/coach or mastermind group, here is the due diligence you'll want to do:
ask for a "get acquainted" session with them, either in person or on the phone. This should be fre*e of charge and depending on the mentor, could range from 15 minutes to 1 hour
ask them exactly what results you can expect from working with them. If they say something like, "Well you know, I'll be coaching you. We'll meet every week on the phone, I'll give you advice and then you'll go do it" -- run the other way! If the person mentoring you doesn't have quantifiable clarity around how they'll help you, how are you going to make the necessary changes to move forward?
ask for testimonials and clients they've worked with before. You want to be sure that you aren't a brand new coach's guinea-pig. I know -- they all have to start somewhere, but that's not your problem!
attend one or more of their fre*e teleseminars. Virtually every good coach I know has weekly or monthly 1-hour seminars that are content rich and again, will give you an opportunity to sample their style. Be prepared for 10 - 15 minutes of self-promotion (after all, there's no free lunch) but you will very quickly learn who is giving really good content and who is just giving fluff
don't be afraid to be clear about your budget and find out how flexible their payment options are. Depending on the initial investment of their programs, there is almost always a monthly, 2-pay or 3-pay option.
I personally like to offer 100% money-back guarantees on all home-study courses (I know I'll get a lot of flak about this!) The reality is that a good coach knows that they will very seldom have to give refunds because they know their programs get results. However, giving prospects the comfort of knowing that they can return the product anytime within 1 year, goes a long way toward building a trusting relationship
As Anne McKevitt said in her interview -- today more than ever -- people want more honesty, not too much to read or digest, and no BS. She also brought up one very interesting point -- and that is that in networking or masterminding, many people only attend their own industry-related events. For example, a financial planner might do most of his or her education by attending events that qualify them for their continuing education credits. The downside of that is that they may never get those "fresh eyes" who can objectively take a look at what they're doing and suggest things that could raise their awareness -- and have a huge impact on their personal and business growth.
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these things? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy to build your business and attract your ideal clients. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from moms to millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
What do you think Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson, Kim and Robert Kiyosaki and Anne McKevitt all have in common?
They give enormous amounts of credit for their success, not just to their own willingness to take action, but to important people who mentored them in their respective careers. Some of these individuals were fortunate that someone took a sincere interest in them and simply took them under their wings. However, as time went on and they were struggling to make a name for themselves, they all -- without exception -- hired experts who could teach them the important aspects of life and business, that they had not yet learned. Had they not done that, do you think we'd know their names today?
Recently I listened to a fascinating interview with rags-to-riches billionaire Anne McKevitt, a woman that many, if not most would be unfamiliar with. In relating her story and where she (correctly) predicted the world economy would be today, she shared some very interesting principles that I think apply to all of us, whether we're famous or not.
First, it appears that the vast majority of people don't understand that failure is part of the process of success. We've all heard those cliches about failing your way to the top, but I think that has become such a commonly heard phrase, that we no longer take it seriously. We've kind of become de-sensitized to the reality and lessons of failing. Show me someone who says they've never failed, and I'll show you a fibber or a non-risk taker.
The good news about failing is that when you hit rock bottom, you realize that you actually have the power to make dramatic changes. By taking responsibility, coupled with intelligent action, you can climb back up relatively quickly. However, when you hit rock bottom -- or just a bump in the road -- it can be difficult to recover if you're not sure what got you there in the first place.
Having been on both sides of the fence -- being mentored and mentoring others -- I see the biggest challenge for people who are considering a mentor, to be the cost versus benefit decision. Or, being the persistent people that we entrepreneurs are, we figure we can just dust ourselves off and battle through it ourselves. But is that productive? Is it FUN?
Sometimes we're so enmeshed in our own situation that it is difficult to see the forest for the trees. As one of my own coaches told me recently, it is much easier for an outsider to see our situation from 30,000 feet, than ourselves, who are right in the thick of things. Add to that, their expertise and ideas that you might not even have thought of, and there can be tremendous progress made in a relatively short period of time by having a mentor.
One of the biggest benefits that McKevitt talked about with her personal experience of mentoring, is the ability to go from ladder-climbing to leaping. Often, we have been conditioned by parents and people who care about us to take little baby steps and to plod along slowly but steadily. I know I can relate to that, having had parents who went through the Great Depression.
By taking a step back from that cautionary advice -- and with the help of an expert -- you may determine that not only have you been slowly ladder-climbing, but you might actually be on the wrong ladder! I don't know about you, but I would rather find that out sooner rather than later, so that I could stop self-sabotaging and step more easily into my greatness.
There are several ways to benefit from the expertise of a mentor, some of which won't cost you a penny:
1. Start or join a mastermind group. Having the support of like-minded people who can look at your ideas with fresh eyes can be tremendously helpful. The caveat is to make sure it is a strong group with structure, that meets often and has a leader. Otherwise, they tend to turn into coffee klatches and can be real time-wasters. You don't need to meet in person. In fact, there are many good mastermind groups online where you can "meet" on a weekly or monthly basis. My own VIP Mentorship group is one of them and you can try it out for 2 months for fre*e.
2. Hire a coach or mentor that is affordable for your budget. Instead of thinking about what working with a mentor will "cost", look at the value that you will derive. For example, determine what you get paid on an hourly basis (or per sale) for what you do. Then look at what one good idea from a mentor would net you in increased sales or billable hours. You might not have budgeted for a coach but hopefully you plan every year for annual growth in your business. Implementing your business mentor's ideas can significantly add to your bottom-line. Using myself as an example, I doubled my client base in 8 months, solely from a coaching program I invested in last November. Do you think that was worth it? You bet -- plus now I can share those money-making ideas with my clients!
3. Work with a mentor by way of their home-study courses or small group teleclasses. These are always much less expensive, you can get their expertise on a very targeted basis, and you can pace yourself both time and investment wise. This is actually how I started working with both my coaches. It also gives you a really good flavor for how they work and whether their style of mentoring works for you.
In all cases, when engaging a mentor/coach or mastermind group, here is the due diligence you'll want to do:
ask for a "get acquainted" session with them, either in person or on the phone. This should be fre*e of charge and depending on the mentor, could range from 15 minutes to 1 hour
ask them exactly what results you can expect from working with them. If they say something like, "Well you know, I'll be coaching you. We'll meet every week on the phone, I'll give you advice and then you'll go do it" -- run the other way! If the person mentoring you doesn't have quantifiable clarity around how they'll help you, how are you going to make the necessary changes to move forward?
ask for testimonials and clients they've worked with before. You want to be sure that you aren't a brand new coach's guinea-pig. I know -- they all have to start somewhere, but that's not your problem!
attend one or more of their fre*e teleseminars. Virtually every good coach I know has weekly or monthly 1-hour seminars that are content rich and again, will give you an opportunity to sample their style. Be prepared for 10 - 15 minutes of self-promotion (after all, there's no free lunch) but you will very quickly learn who is giving really good content and who is just giving fluff
don't be afraid to be clear about your budget and find out how flexible their payment options are. Depending on the initial investment of their programs, there is almost always a monthly, 2-pay or 3-pay option.
I personally like to offer 100% money-back guarantees on all home-study courses (I know I'll get a lot of flak about this!) The reality is that a good coach knows that they will very seldom have to give refunds because they know their programs get results. However, giving prospects the comfort of knowing that they can return the product anytime within 1 year, goes a long way toward building a trusting relationship
As Anne McKevitt said in her interview -- today more than ever -- people want more honesty, not too much to read or digest, and no BS. She also brought up one very interesting point -- and that is that in networking or masterminding, many people only attend their own industry-related events. For example, a financial planner might do most of his or her education by attending events that qualify them for their continuing education credits. The downside of that is that they may never get those "fresh eyes" who can objectively take a look at what they're doing and suggest things that could raise their awareness -- and have a huge impact on their personal and business growth.
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these things? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy to build your business and attract your ideal clients. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from moms to millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
From Transition to Transformation
by Karen Dodd
"I feel like a survivor from an age that people no longer understand."
This is a quote from actress, Olivia de Havilland, who at 93 has witnessed a lot of changes in her ife and in the world.
Ms. de Havilland has touched many people in her long life -- most particularly through the medium of film. I doubt that she could ever have imagined the enormity of the likes of Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin) where the average person can now reach out and touch people all over the world, without even leaving their home. Many of us have embraced these changes and used change as an impetus to grow. Right at this moment, more women than ever, are poised to make major changes -- and although excited about the possibilities -- many are feeling overwhelmed and paralyzed by what lies ahead.
When you are teetering on the brink of greatness, there are only three ways you can go. You can step backward, stay where you are, or hopefully -- step over the line, which is where the magic begins.
I think it would be fair to say that most of us have been fearful of change at some time in our life. But each time you step over that line and move forward, it gets easier and easier, and who you become in the process, is much more meaningful than the results.
On the subject of change, successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, Kim Kiyosaki recently said that there are two kinds of mindset:
1) Fixed mindset - where you say: "I am this, this and this and I don't change."
2) Growth mindset - where you say: "I can change everything by learning and through experience."
Every time we face something we're unfamiliar with -- and go through it -- we learn and grow. If we're not growing, we're dying. In my opinion there hasn't been a time in recent history where it is so important for women to learn, grow, and step into their greatness.
A recent e-Women Network survey reported that even in these economically challenging times, 74% of respondents say now is a good time to grow or start a business. One of the reasons is that you can have an edge on timid competitors who are waiting for the economy to recover.
If you are struggling right now, you need to do things differently than before.
Focus on the positive aspects of your current business or on your unique skills and talents that you can use in starting a new business. Get the help of mentors, coaches, or mastermind groups to help you get more creative and refuse to be victimized by negative news or your self-limiting fears.
Rather than getting overwhelmed with knowing all the details before you move forward, think of changes and transitions as a string of pearls -- when everything is strung together, it becomes like a beautiful necklace with no beginning and no end. Don't let adversities get in your way.
Understand that the door that opens for you today, may not be the exact door that takes you to your objective or goal -- but, go through that door anyway because you have no way of knowing where it will lead.
Learn to just say, "yes." I can't tell you the number of times I've said, "yes, I can do that" and then had to figure it out as I went along. Don't get stuck in the mode of having to be 100% sure of everything before you go ahead and get started.
Start thinking of adversities as gifts wrapped in sandpaper. Like going through an open door that turns out not to be the right one, you will continue to gain strength and experience from these gifts.
Lose some of your attachment to "having balance in your life." As Kim Kiyosaki says, try standing on one foot until you're balanced. Then try to move forward. Pretty hard to move off that perfectly balanced spot, isn't it?
Your Assignment (should you choose to accept it:>)
Just as you'd do when packing for a long trip, ask yourself what you can leave behind (thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you) and what is important to take with you, as you tackle change and move forward.
Here are a few suggestions from the masters to help you do that:
1. Think like a champion. If you had nothing to do at all, what would you do? Set a timer for 2 minutes and write your gut reaction now. This exercise can uncover some hints of what you might be missing in your life (Donald Trump)
2. Recapture your childlike wonder. List your top three talents and then select one that brings you the most joy and makes time disappear. Can you turn it into a business -- or incorporate it into your existing business?(Mark Victor Hansen)
3. Not any old to-do list. What is one thing that you could accomplish today that would make you feel fantastic at day's end? Do it now -- and start every day with that question. (Mel Robbins)
4. Strip bare. Write down a risk you know in your gut you should take now for your life or your business. Now do it. (Richard Branson)
5. Life is the best teacher. What three things have you learned from your biggest adversity? Now put those lessons into practice. (Janine Shepherd - accident victim)
6. Live big and step into your greatness. What two decisions can you make right now to live at a higher level? (Karen Dodd)
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these things? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
"I feel like a survivor from an age that people no longer understand."
This is a quote from actress, Olivia de Havilland, who at 93 has witnessed a lot of changes in her ife and in the world.
Ms. de Havilland has touched many people in her long life -- most particularly through the medium of film. I doubt that she could ever have imagined the enormity of the likes of Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin) where the average person can now reach out and touch people all over the world, without even leaving their home. Many of us have embraced these changes and used change as an impetus to grow. Right at this moment, more women than ever, are poised to make major changes -- and although excited about the possibilities -- many are feeling overwhelmed and paralyzed by what lies ahead.
When you are teetering on the brink of greatness, there are only three ways you can go. You can step backward, stay where you are, or hopefully -- step over the line, which is where the magic begins.
I think it would be fair to say that most of us have been fearful of change at some time in our life. But each time you step over that line and move forward, it gets easier and easier, and who you become in the process, is much more meaningful than the results.
On the subject of change, successful businesswoman and entrepreneur, Kim Kiyosaki recently said that there are two kinds of mindset:
1) Fixed mindset - where you say: "I am this, this and this and I don't change."
2) Growth mindset - where you say: "I can change everything by learning and through experience."
Every time we face something we're unfamiliar with -- and go through it -- we learn and grow. If we're not growing, we're dying. In my opinion there hasn't been a time in recent history where it is so important for women to learn, grow, and step into their greatness.
A recent e-Women Network survey reported that even in these economically challenging times, 74% of respondents say now is a good time to grow or start a business. One of the reasons is that you can have an edge on timid competitors who are waiting for the economy to recover.
If you are struggling right now, you need to do things differently than before.
Focus on the positive aspects of your current business or on your unique skills and talents that you can use in starting a new business. Get the help of mentors, coaches, or mastermind groups to help you get more creative and refuse to be victimized by negative news or your self-limiting fears.
Rather than getting overwhelmed with knowing all the details before you move forward, think of changes and transitions as a string of pearls -- when everything is strung together, it becomes like a beautiful necklace with no beginning and no end. Don't let adversities get in your way.
Understand that the door that opens for you today, may not be the exact door that takes you to your objective or goal -- but, go through that door anyway because you have no way of knowing where it will lead.
Learn to just say, "yes." I can't tell you the number of times I've said, "yes, I can do that" and then had to figure it out as I went along. Don't get stuck in the mode of having to be 100% sure of everything before you go ahead and get started.
Start thinking of adversities as gifts wrapped in sandpaper. Like going through an open door that turns out not to be the right one, you will continue to gain strength and experience from these gifts.
Lose some of your attachment to "having balance in your life." As Kim Kiyosaki says, try standing on one foot until you're balanced. Then try to move forward. Pretty hard to move off that perfectly balanced spot, isn't it?
Your Assignment (should you choose to accept it:>)
Just as you'd do when packing for a long trip, ask yourself what you can leave behind (thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you) and what is important to take with you, as you tackle change and move forward.
Here are a few suggestions from the masters to help you do that:
1. Think like a champion. If you had nothing to do at all, what would you do? Set a timer for 2 minutes and write your gut reaction now. This exercise can uncover some hints of what you might be missing in your life (Donald Trump)
2. Recapture your childlike wonder. List your top three talents and then select one that brings you the most joy and makes time disappear. Can you turn it into a business -- or incorporate it into your existing business?(Mark Victor Hansen)
3. Not any old to-do list. What is one thing that you could accomplish today that would make you feel fantastic at day's end? Do it now -- and start every day with that question. (Mel Robbins)
4. Strip bare. Write down a risk you know in your gut you should take now for your life or your business. Now do it. (Richard Branson)
5. Life is the best teacher. What three things have you learned from your biggest adversity? Now put those lessons into practice. (Janine Shepherd - accident victim)
6. Live big and step into your greatness. What two decisions can you make right now to live at a higher level? (Karen Dodd)
Need some help to figure out how to really focus in on implementing these things? Then be sure to go to my Events page to get more information about my Inside Every Woman There's a Millionaire® Tea Party. If you are not in our local marketplace, then click here to register for my small group 5-week teleclass.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your niche and implement a step-by-step strategy. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Attract New Clients By Design
by Karen Dodd
In last week's article, I asked you to imagine waking up tomorrow morning to find that you have 3 new clients who are waving their hands and saying, "I'm ready to buy -- now!" They have self-selected, they are pre-qualified and are fully prepared to pay your fee or buy your product. You have attracted them, using a marketing system that works like a well-oiled machine and they have specifically sought you out because you are known as an expert in your niche.
What would this well-oiled "marketing system" look like, you ask. While it's impossible to go into a step-by-step discussion in this article, this would be a great time to probe a little deeper into the why, the how and the where of your marketing machine.
Let's start with why would you want to market. To attract clients and make more money would be the obvious answer, but I think that to market authentically, it goes deeper than that.
Just as each of us has God-given talents that define who we are and what our life purpose is, I believe we are obligated to share those talents with others. The only way of letting people know what we offer, is to market. Please do not confuse marketing with advertising. I know a lot of entrepreneurs -- the majority, actually-- who do all of their business through marketing, with no formal advertising whatsoever. I'm not saying you shouldn't advertise; I just want you to make that distinction, before we move on.
In the marketing world there are two basic types of marketing. One is called "push-through" marketing and the other is "pull through" marketing. An example of push-through marketing is just about everything you see on television that plugs a product or service. This method relies very heavily -- if not exclusively -- on advertising. Advertising can be expensive and unless you know what you're doing, it often does not provide the return on investment that a small business owner needs. It definitely doesn't work overnight.
Pull-through marketing on the other hand, is really what it sounds like. Due to your personality, your compelling marketing methods and your visibility, it's like extending a hand to a prospect who literally is looking for the lifeline you offer them. Through your marketing efforts, they see YOU as the way to avoid pain (less cost, less stress) or to achieve gain (time freedom, more income, more expertise).
In order to use pull-through marketing effectively, it's critical that you do 4 things:
1. Get 100%, undeniably, irrefutably, crystal clear on who your target market is.
The biggest mistake I see entrepreneurs make is they are afraid to narrow their niche, especially when they're first starting out. It's natural to want to be all things to all people because you're trying to get your business up and running and in the black as soon as possible, right? Wrong. This is one of those times when you want to "slow down to speed up." Take the time necessary to figure out exactly who your market is -- and in turn it will make the next steps a lot easier.
Mentoring challenge: Write a profile of your ideal client or customer. Give him or her a name, their age, where they live, their lifestyle, married, single....you get the idea. You're not always going to be able attract the absolute ideal client all the time, but aim high -- it will give you much more clarity with which to craft your marketing message. Later, when you get so busy you have to turn away business (yes, it will happen!) you will be much better able to prioritize which clients to work with.
2. Get really clear on what your ideal client's biggest problems are.
Again, clarity is critical because if you can't tell someone in 30 - 60 seconds why you and your product or service are the absolute best option to solve their problem, your lack of clarity will consciously or unconsciously affect their decision-making. What I often see happening in this area, is that you tell the prospect about your process rather than the desired outcome they can expect when they work with you.
Mentoring challenge: Write out your "60-second commercial" and practice it with a friend -- or ideally a mastermind buddy -- who will give you honest feedback.
Avoid using labels to describe what you do. Instead of telling someone you're an accountant, tell them what you can do for them that will make their life easier. Be crystal clear about what you offer and not only what's in it for them -- but why you are clearly the best person to serve their needs. If you are not sure what they need or why you're the one, you need to drill down until you are.
3. Mirror their motivators in your written, verbal and online marketing.
When you know who your ideal client is and what their typical biggest problems are, you are in an ideal position to mirror that back to them at every opportunity. This is not being manipulative; it is being helpful. Your prospects don't need more friends; they need the right person to solve their problems. Be sure to use the solutions you provide in your tag line, on your business cards, on your website...everywhere. When you know what motivates your ideal client you have real, usable and powerful information in the palm of your hands. Use it!
Mentoring challenge: Write down all the problems that your ideal prospect brings to you. Reflect back on real issues that have come up, and then write out exactly -- using their language -- what you would mirror back in your solution. Make sure that your marketing materials have all the components of what prospects will get by working with you, what makes you unique in what you do and weave in some examples of other clients you've worked with, that addressed this same problem.
4. What to do if you're not yet an "expert" in your field.
As an entrepreneur, do not discount the advantage of having a Ph.D in results. Yes, it would be nice if you had written a book or been interviewed on TV, radio and in newspapers -- but we all have to start somewhere. If you have chosen a particular niche, it is often because you had that particular problem and there was no one at that time, to help you with it. When you share your compelling story in your online or offline marketing, it very often draws them to you (pull-through marketing) and your solutions. On your website or in your brochure, ask questions like, "Do you find yourself struggling with...?" or "Are you frustrated by...?"
On a personal note, I have had clients work with me solely because when I related my story, it hit them so hard in their own heart, that they instantly were attracted to me and they knew I could help them. Never underestimate the power of an emotional connection with someone. As small business owners or independent associates, that's one of the edges we have over huge corporations.
Mentoring challenge:
ASK, ASK, ASK rather than tell, tell, tell! As I'm talking about marketing versus sales here, I mean this rhetorically. If you're not sure what I mean, go to my homepage at www.karendodd.com and see what the first thing is that jumps out at you?
Finally, it's virtually impossible to change and improve your marketing machine without help (otherwise you'd be doing it, right?) We all need the help of mentors or role-models. It's a cliche, but we don't know what we don't know.
Now you know Why you want to market and a little bit of the How, you need to implement the What. Find a marketing mentor or coach who fits your personality, and who can teach you their specific, step-by-step marketing system. You want to choose a coach you feel comfortable with, but remember -- you want someone who is going to challenge you, much like playing tennis with someone who is "better" than you. You can't continue doing the same thing and expect different results.
I know for sure -- that this hot and muggy morning, I definitely would have quit my Pilates routine had my personal trainer not been there to challenge and encourage me! Likewise, if someone isn't there to coach and guide you to better performance in your business, the more things will remain the same.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your market niche and automate your marketing strategy, so you can work less and enjoy more income. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
In last week's article, I asked you to imagine waking up tomorrow morning to find that you have 3 new clients who are waving their hands and saying, "I'm ready to buy -- now!" They have self-selected, they are pre-qualified and are fully prepared to pay your fee or buy your product. You have attracted them, using a marketing system that works like a well-oiled machine and they have specifically sought you out because you are known as an expert in your niche.
What would this well-oiled "marketing system" look like, you ask. While it's impossible to go into a step-by-step discussion in this article, this would be a great time to probe a little deeper into the why, the how and the where of your marketing machine.
Let's start with why would you want to market. To attract clients and make more money would be the obvious answer, but I think that to market authentically, it goes deeper than that.
Just as each of us has God-given talents that define who we are and what our life purpose is, I believe we are obligated to share those talents with others. The only way of letting people know what we offer, is to market. Please do not confuse marketing with advertising. I know a lot of entrepreneurs -- the majority, actually-- who do all of their business through marketing, with no formal advertising whatsoever. I'm not saying you shouldn't advertise; I just want you to make that distinction, before we move on.
In the marketing world there are two basic types of marketing. One is called "push-through" marketing and the other is "pull through" marketing. An example of push-through marketing is just about everything you see on television that plugs a product or service. This method relies very heavily -- if not exclusively -- on advertising. Advertising can be expensive and unless you know what you're doing, it often does not provide the return on investment that a small business owner needs. It definitely doesn't work overnight.
Pull-through marketing on the other hand, is really what it sounds like. Due to your personality, your compelling marketing methods and your visibility, it's like extending a hand to a prospect who literally is looking for the lifeline you offer them. Through your marketing efforts, they see YOU as the way to avoid pain (less cost, less stress) or to achieve gain (time freedom, more income, more expertise).
In order to use pull-through marketing effectively, it's critical that you do 4 things:
1. Get 100%, undeniably, irrefutably, crystal clear on who your target market is.
The biggest mistake I see entrepreneurs make is they are afraid to narrow their niche, especially when they're first starting out. It's natural to want to be all things to all people because you're trying to get your business up and running and in the black as soon as possible, right? Wrong. This is one of those times when you want to "slow down to speed up." Take the time necessary to figure out exactly who your market is -- and in turn it will make the next steps a lot easier.
Mentoring challenge: Write a profile of your ideal client or customer. Give him or her a name, their age, where they live, their lifestyle, married, single....you get the idea. You're not always going to be able attract the absolute ideal client all the time, but aim high -- it will give you much more clarity with which to craft your marketing message. Later, when you get so busy you have to turn away business (yes, it will happen!) you will be much better able to prioritize which clients to work with.
2. Get really clear on what your ideal client's biggest problems are.
Again, clarity is critical because if you can't tell someone in 30 - 60 seconds why you and your product or service are the absolute best option to solve their problem, your lack of clarity will consciously or unconsciously affect their decision-making. What I often see happening in this area, is that you tell the prospect about your process rather than the desired outcome they can expect when they work with you.
Mentoring challenge: Write out your "60-second commercial" and practice it with a friend -- or ideally a mastermind buddy -- who will give you honest feedback.
Avoid using labels to describe what you do. Instead of telling someone you're an accountant, tell them what you can do for them that will make their life easier. Be crystal clear about what you offer and not only what's in it for them -- but why you are clearly the best person to serve their needs. If you are not sure what they need or why you're the one, you need to drill down until you are.
3. Mirror their motivators in your written, verbal and online marketing.
When you know who your ideal client is and what their typical biggest problems are, you are in an ideal position to mirror that back to them at every opportunity. This is not being manipulative; it is being helpful. Your prospects don't need more friends; they need the right person to solve their problems. Be sure to use the solutions you provide in your tag line, on your business cards, on your website...everywhere. When you know what motivates your ideal client you have real, usable and powerful information in the palm of your hands. Use it!
Mentoring challenge: Write down all the problems that your ideal prospect brings to you. Reflect back on real issues that have come up, and then write out exactly -- using their language -- what you would mirror back in your solution. Make sure that your marketing materials have all the components of what prospects will get by working with you, what makes you unique in what you do and weave in some examples of other clients you've worked with, that addressed this same problem.
4. What to do if you're not yet an "expert" in your field.
As an entrepreneur, do not discount the advantage of having a Ph.D in results. Yes, it would be nice if you had written a book or been interviewed on TV, radio and in newspapers -- but we all have to start somewhere. If you have chosen a particular niche, it is often because you had that particular problem and there was no one at that time, to help you with it. When you share your compelling story in your online or offline marketing, it very often draws them to you (pull-through marketing) and your solutions. On your website or in your brochure, ask questions like, "Do you find yourself struggling with...?" or "Are you frustrated by...?"
On a personal note, I have had clients work with me solely because when I related my story, it hit them so hard in their own heart, that they instantly were attracted to me and they knew I could help them. Never underestimate the power of an emotional connection with someone. As small business owners or independent associates, that's one of the edges we have over huge corporations.
Mentoring challenge:
ASK, ASK, ASK rather than tell, tell, tell! As I'm talking about marketing versus sales here, I mean this rhetorically. If you're not sure what I mean, go to my homepage at www.karendodd.com and see what the first thing is that jumps out at you?
Finally, it's virtually impossible to change and improve your marketing machine without help (otherwise you'd be doing it, right?) We all need the help of mentors or role-models. It's a cliche, but we don't know what we don't know.
Now you know Why you want to market and a little bit of the How, you need to implement the What. Find a marketing mentor or coach who fits your personality, and who can teach you their specific, step-by-step marketing system. You want to choose a coach you feel comfortable with, but remember -- you want someone who is going to challenge you, much like playing tennis with someone who is "better" than you. You can't continue doing the same thing and expect different results.
I know for sure -- that this hot and muggy morning, I definitely would have quit my Pilates routine had my personal trainer not been there to challenge and encourage me! Likewise, if someone isn't there to coach and guide you to better performance in your business, the more things will remain the same.
[Editor's note: Karen is available to work with you one-on-one, to help you identify your market niche and automate your marketing strategy, so you can work less and enjoy more income. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com for more information.]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
5 Ways To Shift The Way You Work
by Karen Dodd
Imagine waking up tomorrow morning to find that you have 3 new clients who are waving their hands and saying, "I'm ready to buy -- now!" They have self-selected, they are pre-qualified and are fully prepared to pay your fee or buy your product. You have attracted them, using a marketing system that works like a well-oiled machine and they have specifically sought you out because you are known as an expert in your niche.
On the personal side, you take a vacation at least once a quarter, you only work 4 days a week (so you make your own long weekends) and although you're working less, you're making more than you were when you were working seven-plus days a week.
Sound too good to be true? Sadly, this scenario is foreign to most entrepreneurs because they lack the clarity and focus to make it a reality. Those who do accomplish the time-freedom part, often do so at the expense of a better income. In other words, they just adjust their income needs down, in order to work less.
What would it take for you to have it all: the ever-increasing income, the free time to spend with those you love, and all the clients you need, whenever you need them?
The answer is that everything in life and business is about Marketing.When you are trying to find your soul-mate in life (or just a great date:>), it's all about marketing yourself. Likewise, when you're trying to find your dream job. Or you go to the bank with your business plan, to apply for financing. When your eighteen-year-old starts applying to colleges, she's marketing herself. You get the gist, right?
However...before marketing, comes Mindset.
Marketing is simply a step-by-step process, using certain proven principles -- which done consistently over time, produce desired results. It can be boring or it can be fun (I only do fun), but it is just a blueprint for accomplishing your business goals.
Mindset is the foundation on which those marketing principles are built. It is what defines your direction or sets your compass, for everything you do in life. How you do anything is how you do everything.
Here are 5 Master Keys to shifting the way you work, that will shape your mindset -- and thus lead to fun and productive marketing.
1. Think about how you are showing up in your business.
If you work from home, ask yourself: "Would I do the laundry, cook, watch TV or shop online if I worked in a corporation? Eliminate all your time-wasters -- all of them. Look at where you might be over-committed. Are you a chronic volunteer? I'm all for giving and contributing but are you giving time to needy causes when your business is needy? Are you volunteering in order to be filled up or to gain recognition, that you could be getting internally, from success in your business?Clear the decks and make room, time-wise, for only what you need to focus on at any given moment. Before every task, ask yourself, "Is what I am about to do, taking me closer to my goal?
2. Master the art of FOCUS and learn to work in the flow.
Structure provides freedom. I know that sounds like an oxymoron, but all successful people have designed systems for themselves, in order to achieve great things without becoming totally overwhelmed. By structuring your day and your week, you're training your mind to accomplish tasks faster, in shorter periods of time. Create consistent days or portions of days for things like marketing, business development, and client appointments. Working in the flow means that you work on one thing and one thing only, either until it's completed or the time you've allotted is up. Then you move on to the next thing.
Cluster all your appointments, product creation, or errands -- and do that one task all at once, rather than breaking up your day. Remember, every time you are distracted or lose focus, you delay the outcome that you desire. Have your mantra in front of you at all times: "Focus ONLY on (insert your project) Until Completion." Mine is taped to the top of my computer screen where I see it every second of every day.
3. Set new boundaries for yourself and others.
What would happen if you didn't check your emails until after 11am and not again until 4pm? Would any small children die or would your business self-destruct? What if you only returned or made phone calls between the hours of 2 and 4pm? Without you becoming rigid and autocratic, people will soon figure out that you are not available at their whim -- and will admire you for being focused. Once I finally broke down and set boundaries, several close friends and my spouse commented that I was more relaxed and fully present when I spent time with them.
4. Be mindful that money likes speed.
It's always about acting with speed and focusing on one thing only. As all procrastinators know, the longer you have to accomplish something, the longer you will take -- plus a day! So, start setting ridiculously short deadlines for yourself. Case in point: I am doing a live event in the Fall, that I moved up by one month. You can bet that I am totally focused on promoting, writing the content, delegating and hiring everything to do with that project. It consumes the allotted time every day, that I have set aside to make it happen.You obviously have to consider your temperament and ability to handle pressure -- you don't want to put yourself under such incredible stress that you become paralyzed or burn out. However, by using systems, structure, and getting help -- you can build a safe cocoon in which to get things done in record time.
5. Eliminate multi-tasking.
I know, I know....I can hear you gasp, what -- as women, we are wired to multi-task! That may be true with routine tasks that are familiar to you, like listening to your iPod while running. But, new research shows that multi-tasking and task-switching takes a tremendous amount of energy and actually causes our brain to come to a temporary halt. This is particularly true of higher brain functions that involve communication and learning. Examples would be answering an email while talking to a client on the phone, or reading an article while listening to a teleseminar. In these instances our brains prefer to concentrate on one task at a time and doesn't work well flitting from one focus to another. I tend to remember ridiculous analogies, so try to think of the last time you saw a winning jockey ride two horses across the finish line. It will never happen!
Here's this week's mentoring tip:
Take 10 minutes and write down:
all the time-wasters that you typically do in a day. Commit to getting rid of them today
get out your day planner or Outlook and map out consistent times every day to market -- and every week for business/product development, when you work with clients, etc.
what new boundaries you are going to set for yourself and others (that includes spouse, kids, friends, staff and clients) that will eliminate distractions or break your flow
create tools to help systematize your business (consider things like mind-mapping, project tracking sheets, etc.)
[Editor's note: as always, Karen loves to hear your feedback or answer any questions for you. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com and you can definitely expect a response]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Imagine waking up tomorrow morning to find that you have 3 new clients who are waving their hands and saying, "I'm ready to buy -- now!" They have self-selected, they are pre-qualified and are fully prepared to pay your fee or buy your product. You have attracted them, using a marketing system that works like a well-oiled machine and they have specifically sought you out because you are known as an expert in your niche.
On the personal side, you take a vacation at least once a quarter, you only work 4 days a week (so you make your own long weekends) and although you're working less, you're making more than you were when you were working seven-plus days a week.
Sound too good to be true? Sadly, this scenario is foreign to most entrepreneurs because they lack the clarity and focus to make it a reality. Those who do accomplish the time-freedom part, often do so at the expense of a better income. In other words, they just adjust their income needs down, in order to work less.
What would it take for you to have it all: the ever-increasing income, the free time to spend with those you love, and all the clients you need, whenever you need them?
The answer is that everything in life and business is about Marketing.When you are trying to find your soul-mate in life (or just a great date:>), it's all about marketing yourself. Likewise, when you're trying to find your dream job. Or you go to the bank with your business plan, to apply for financing. When your eighteen-year-old starts applying to colleges, she's marketing herself. You get the gist, right?
However...before marketing, comes Mindset.
Marketing is simply a step-by-step process, using certain proven principles -- which done consistently over time, produce desired results. It can be boring or it can be fun (I only do fun), but it is just a blueprint for accomplishing your business goals.
Mindset is the foundation on which those marketing principles are built. It is what defines your direction or sets your compass, for everything you do in life. How you do anything is how you do everything.
Here are 5 Master Keys to shifting the way you work, that will shape your mindset -- and thus lead to fun and productive marketing.
1. Think about how you are showing up in your business.
If you work from home, ask yourself: "Would I do the laundry, cook, watch TV or shop online if I worked in a corporation? Eliminate all your time-wasters -- all of them. Look at where you might be over-committed. Are you a chronic volunteer? I'm all for giving and contributing but are you giving time to needy causes when your business is needy? Are you volunteering in order to be filled up or to gain recognition, that you could be getting internally, from success in your business?Clear the decks and make room, time-wise, for only what you need to focus on at any given moment. Before every task, ask yourself, "Is what I am about to do, taking me closer to my goal?
2. Master the art of FOCUS and learn to work in the flow.
Structure provides freedom. I know that sounds like an oxymoron, but all successful people have designed systems for themselves, in order to achieve great things without becoming totally overwhelmed. By structuring your day and your week, you're training your mind to accomplish tasks faster, in shorter periods of time. Create consistent days or portions of days for things like marketing, business development, and client appointments. Working in the flow means that you work on one thing and one thing only, either until it's completed or the time you've allotted is up. Then you move on to the next thing.
Cluster all your appointments, product creation, or errands -- and do that one task all at once, rather than breaking up your day. Remember, every time you are distracted or lose focus, you delay the outcome that you desire. Have your mantra in front of you at all times: "Focus ONLY on (insert your project) Until Completion." Mine is taped to the top of my computer screen where I see it every second of every day.
3. Set new boundaries for yourself and others.
What would happen if you didn't check your emails until after 11am and not again until 4pm? Would any small children die or would your business self-destruct? What if you only returned or made phone calls between the hours of 2 and 4pm? Without you becoming rigid and autocratic, people will soon figure out that you are not available at their whim -- and will admire you for being focused. Once I finally broke down and set boundaries, several close friends and my spouse commented that I was more relaxed and fully present when I spent time with them.
4. Be mindful that money likes speed.
It's always about acting with speed and focusing on one thing only. As all procrastinators know, the longer you have to accomplish something, the longer you will take -- plus a day! So, start setting ridiculously short deadlines for yourself. Case in point: I am doing a live event in the Fall, that I moved up by one month. You can bet that I am totally focused on promoting, writing the content, delegating and hiring everything to do with that project. It consumes the allotted time every day, that I have set aside to make it happen.You obviously have to consider your temperament and ability to handle pressure -- you don't want to put yourself under such incredible stress that you become paralyzed or burn out. However, by using systems, structure, and getting help -- you can build a safe cocoon in which to get things done in record time.
5. Eliminate multi-tasking.
I know, I know....I can hear you gasp, what -- as women, we are wired to multi-task! That may be true with routine tasks that are familiar to you, like listening to your iPod while running. But, new research shows that multi-tasking and task-switching takes a tremendous amount of energy and actually causes our brain to come to a temporary halt. This is particularly true of higher brain functions that involve communication and learning. Examples would be answering an email while talking to a client on the phone, or reading an article while listening to a teleseminar. In these instances our brains prefer to concentrate on one task at a time and doesn't work well flitting from one focus to another. I tend to remember ridiculous analogies, so try to think of the last time you saw a winning jockey ride two horses across the finish line. It will never happen!
Here's this week's mentoring tip:
Take 10 minutes and write down:
all the time-wasters that you typically do in a day. Commit to getting rid of them today
get out your day planner or Outlook and map out consistent times every day to market -- and every week for business/product development, when you work with clients, etc.
what new boundaries you are going to set for yourself and others (that includes spouse, kids, friends, staff and clients) that will eliminate distractions or break your flow
create tools to help systematize your business (consider things like mind-mapping, project tracking sheets, etc.)
[Editor's note: as always, Karen loves to hear your feedback or answer any questions for you. Please email her at Karen@KarenDodd.com and you can definitely expect a response]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Are You Sitting On Multiple Streams of Income?
by Karen Dodd
A former coach and mentor of mine was famous for saying, "You've always got to have a big back- end."
The first time I heard that, I can tell you that what I envisioned wasn't pretty. In fact, it seemed like I'd been working forever to keep my back end, anything but big!
However, as I came to realize -- and now teach my clients -- having a back-end to your business is key, particularly if you ever hope to slow down and enjoy the time freedom that having your own business should bring.
Think of your main business as your front-end. For example, let's say you have a flower shop...that's what you do every day. In order to be a great florist, you have to have a passion and a lot of knowledge and expertise. Assuming you're already working at least five days a week in your business, the only way you can make more income is to work more hours or leverage your time and knowledge, to create additional income streams from what you already know. That would be your back-end -- which ideally, you want to be big (I know -- just put that nasty image right out of your mind!)
So, let's plug in what you do and see what a highly leveraged, big back-end could that look like.
1. If you like writing, you could write either a "real" book, or an E-book. An E-book is a quick, easy and virtually no-cost way to get your name out there. You can use it as a free gift to encourage people to visit your location or your website. Alternatively, you can sell virtually any type of E-book (with good content, of course) for anywhere between $19.95 and $69.00. In the example of the florist, she might write an E-book on decorating your home and flower-arranging for holiday entertaining. Or, how about teaching people how to make living wreaths rather than the usual store-bought, fake ones? Again, just plug in what you and your talents are and look for ways to share that with the public.
2. You could share or sell information by recording it. The quickest, easiest and least expensive way of doing that is to record your presentation and make it available via an mp3 file, delivered from your website, by email or in your ezine (like this one). You could also put it on CD's or DVD's and ship them and also make them available in your store or place of business. You Tube is also a great way to make short videos available free of charge, that in turn will direct viewers to your web and your other offerings. When I was learning how to knit, I would have given anything to see a demonstration as it would appear to me, if my knitting was in front of me. I found it very confusing trying to learn it from a book.
3. Hold a teleseminar or webinar. These are nothing more than online classes that you can either do live or pre-recorded. At the beginning, if you're nervous or you don't have a following of people to invite, you're better to pre-record it. That way, you can edit it or start over, until you get a little more experienced. I like doing them live because I like the instant gratification of feedback and participation. You can offer your seminars free, as a lead-in to something you'd like your audience to purchase in the future. Or, you can charge anywhere from twenty-five, to many hundreds of dollars for a series of teleclasses.
4. Interview an expert, get yourself interviewed, or write the Q&A for an ideal interview you'd like to do, and have a friend or assistant interview you. You can then distribute it by mp3, CD or put it in a Special Report to either give away free or charge for.
5. Offer to speak or teach classes at a local venue, appropriate to what you do. Many organizations, from non-profit to profitable businesses are always looking for great speakers or workshop leaders. For example, you might volunteer to teach scrap-booking at an art supply or handicraft store. A personal favorite of mine is to offer to teach regular workshops at the big-name bookstores like Borders or Indigo. You will probably be doing the classes for free but you will eventually get a following and you can send them home with your $20 CD, book, or have them enroll in one of your paid events.
You might be asking, "Karen, how does this create a big back-end -- when you're talking about giving things away for free or charging relatively small prices?
The key is "leverage." You only have to create these info products one time, you have them forever, and if done properly, they will generate a lot of income over time -- without you having to take take away from your main day-to-day business. In fact, many of the people I have mentored who started this way, actually had the info products part of their business take over, because it became more profitable and way more fun than being tied to their "traditional" businesses.
It is simply the difference between linear income and leveraged income -- a little like being able to buy a much more substantial house with the bank's money, versus what you have managed to save up yourself.
In the final analysis, from just one passion or piece of knowledge that you already have, you could conceivably create 7 streams of income, such as:
• an E-book or Special Report
• a published, traditional book
• a CD, mp3 or video (or all three)
• a series of articles that could be made into a course or teleclass
• a transcription of an interview that could then be used in a live or pre-recorded teleclass
• a "free" class or live event that you use to feed into your main (paid) offering
• all of the above, that could be packaged into a physical course (typically with CD's, workbook, etc.)
Don't think you have anything that you could generate great content from? Think again. I guarantee that you do!
Here's my coaching challenge to you:
Think of something you know, are passionate about, or is second nature to you. Then write 3 Tips For__________. Now, work on developing all or any of these tips...and Voila! You have your content.
With some imagination and perhaps the help of a coach or mentor, there is literally no limit to what you could have out there working for you, while you're doing your day-to-day business.Trust me, you do not need to be overly tech-savvy to learn how to do this. I find that when I share my Little Black Book of contacts and a bit of direction, with my clients -- they are able to start creating things they had never thought possible.
Question for you: how do you think you'd feel, sitting on a beach somewhere, sipping a Margarita, watching the orders come in over your BlackBerry or laptop? Whoopee! That can be YOU!
[Editor's note: as always, Karen loves to hear your feedback or answer any questions for you. Please email her at Info@KarenDodd.com and you can definitely expect a response]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
A former coach and mentor of mine was famous for saying, "You've always got to have a big back- end."
The first time I heard that, I can tell you that what I envisioned wasn't pretty. In fact, it seemed like I'd been working forever to keep my back end, anything but big!
However, as I came to realize -- and now teach my clients -- having a back-end to your business is key, particularly if you ever hope to slow down and enjoy the time freedom that having your own business should bring.
Think of your main business as your front-end. For example, let's say you have a flower shop...that's what you do every day. In order to be a great florist, you have to have a passion and a lot of knowledge and expertise. Assuming you're already working at least five days a week in your business, the only way you can make more income is to work more hours or leverage your time and knowledge, to create additional income streams from what you already know. That would be your back-end -- which ideally, you want to be big (I know -- just put that nasty image right out of your mind!)
So, let's plug in what you do and see what a highly leveraged, big back-end could that look like.
1. If you like writing, you could write either a "real" book, or an E-book. An E-book is a quick, easy and virtually no-cost way to get your name out there. You can use it as a free gift to encourage people to visit your location or your website. Alternatively, you can sell virtually any type of E-book (with good content, of course) for anywhere between $19.95 and $69.00. In the example of the florist, she might write an E-book on decorating your home and flower-arranging for holiday entertaining. Or, how about teaching people how to make living wreaths rather than the usual store-bought, fake ones? Again, just plug in what you and your talents are and look for ways to share that with the public.
2. You could share or sell information by recording it. The quickest, easiest and least expensive way of doing that is to record your presentation and make it available via an mp3 file, delivered from your website, by email or in your ezine (like this one). You could also put it on CD's or DVD's and ship them and also make them available in your store or place of business. You Tube is also a great way to make short videos available free of charge, that in turn will direct viewers to your web and your other offerings. When I was learning how to knit, I would have given anything to see a demonstration as it would appear to me, if my knitting was in front of me. I found it very confusing trying to learn it from a book.
3. Hold a teleseminar or webinar. These are nothing more than online classes that you can either do live or pre-recorded. At the beginning, if you're nervous or you don't have a following of people to invite, you're better to pre-record it. That way, you can edit it or start over, until you get a little more experienced. I like doing them live because I like the instant gratification of feedback and participation. You can offer your seminars free, as a lead-in to something you'd like your audience to purchase in the future. Or, you can charge anywhere from twenty-five, to many hundreds of dollars for a series of teleclasses.
4. Interview an expert, get yourself interviewed, or write the Q&A for an ideal interview you'd like to do, and have a friend or assistant interview you. You can then distribute it by mp3, CD or put it in a Special Report to either give away free or charge for.
5. Offer to speak or teach classes at a local venue, appropriate to what you do. Many organizations, from non-profit to profitable businesses are always looking for great speakers or workshop leaders. For example, you might volunteer to teach scrap-booking at an art supply or handicraft store. A personal favorite of mine is to offer to teach regular workshops at the big-name bookstores like Borders or Indigo. You will probably be doing the classes for free but you will eventually get a following and you can send them home with your $20 CD, book, or have them enroll in one of your paid events.
You might be asking, "Karen, how does this create a big back-end -- when you're talking about giving things away for free or charging relatively small prices?
The key is "leverage." You only have to create these info products one time, you have them forever, and if done properly, they will generate a lot of income over time -- without you having to take take away from your main day-to-day business. In fact, many of the people I have mentored who started this way, actually had the info products part of their business take over, because it became more profitable and way more fun than being tied to their "traditional" businesses.
It is simply the difference between linear income and leveraged income -- a little like being able to buy a much more substantial house with the bank's money, versus what you have managed to save up yourself.
In the final analysis, from just one passion or piece of knowledge that you already have, you could conceivably create 7 streams of income, such as:
• an E-book or Special Report
• a published, traditional book
• a CD, mp3 or video (or all three)
• a series of articles that could be made into a course or teleclass
• a transcription of an interview that could then be used in a live or pre-recorded teleclass
• a "free" class or live event that you use to feed into your main (paid) offering
• all of the above, that could be packaged into a physical course (typically with CD's, workbook, etc.)
Don't think you have anything that you could generate great content from? Think again. I guarantee that you do!
Here's my coaching challenge to you:
Think of something you know, are passionate about, or is second nature to you. Then write 3 Tips For__________. Now, work on developing all or any of these tips...and Voila! You have your content.
With some imagination and perhaps the help of a coach or mentor, there is literally no limit to what you could have out there working for you, while you're doing your day-to-day business.Trust me, you do not need to be overly tech-savvy to learn how to do this. I find that when I share my Little Black Book of contacts and a bit of direction, with my clients -- they are able to start creating things they had never thought possible.
Question for you: how do you think you'd feel, sitting on a beach somewhere, sipping a Margarita, watching the orders come in over your BlackBerry or laptop? Whoopee! That can be YOU!
[Editor's note: as always, Karen loves to hear your feedback or answer any questions for you. Please email her at Info@KarenDodd.com and you can definitely expect a response]
©2009 Karen Dodd International
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEBSITE? No problem! But here's what you MUST include:
Working with everyone from Moms to Millionaires, Karen Dodd helps you connect with your unique gifts and talents, ignite your passion, and take inspired action so you can Focus On The Dream(TM). To learn how you can start or move your business to a level that you've only dreamed of, register now for Karen's free articles at: www.Karendodd.com.
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